Nigerian artist offers training, demonstration for area children

Works by Ibiyinka Alao, above, will be used to inpire young artists at a workshop in Carthage Aug. 30 and 30.

An artist from Nigeria will be featured at two free art workshops in Carthage Aug. 30 and 31.

Ibiyinka Olufemi Alao represented Nigeria and was first place winner of the United Nations International Art Competition among 61 countries.

Sharon Barr of the Barr Art Studio met Alao, who offered to hold art training and demonstrations for young people in this area at no cost.

Having secured a grant from the Two Rivers Arts Council, these workshops are free, however students must register in advance. Art supplies and some of Alao's expenses are covered by the grant.

Students may choose to attend class either night held at the old Farm Bureau auditorium, 71 S. Adams, in Carthage. Class is at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 30, and at 7 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 31.

Alao will speak and do an art demonstration. Then each student attending can do a painting under his guidance, using the traditional African art style.

Alao is trained as an architect at the University of Ile-Ife, Nigeria. At an early age, he saw life in color, a unique perspective that allowed him to depict, in a clear and elaborate manner, what he had a hard time articulating.

His paintings are currently in the United States on tour. They have been exhibited at the Harvard Business School, the United Nations Headquarters, Martin Luther King Art Center, and many other locations. “Visions of True Colours,” a reception and exhibit of his paintings was hosted by ChevronTexaco in 2005.

To reserve a place for a child at one of these classes, call Barr at 217/357-1483, or during the evening at 217/654-3321.