Prof. Tunde Odunlade is an artist, curator, activist and founder of Tunde Odunlade Arts & Culture Connexions, New Bodija, Ibadan. In this interview with ENIOLA ADESIPE, Prince Odunlade speaks on the rationale behind the establishment and the impacts of the gallery.
This gallery has been running for five years now. What inspired you to establish it?
The vision for this space was largely influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic. At one point, it became clear that it wasn’t just the virus affecting people, it was the fear and misinformation surrounding it. Social distancing rules were everywhere, and people were afraid to interact.
I asked myself: why not create a space where people could still socialise, safely, with physical distancing? That’s how the idea came about—a place where people could come together, enjoy art, and remain mindful of the health guidelines.
Since its establishment, what kind of people have been visiting the gallery?
To God be the glory, we’ve welcomed a remarkable calibre of visitors. Ambassadors from the U.S., the UK, Taiwan, France, and more have come here. We’ve had traditional rulers like the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, who spent four hours with us, as well as other community leaders.
Many visitors say they had heard about the gallery from friends or colleagues and couldn’t believe such a space exists in Nigeria, until they came and saw it for themselves.
How has the gallery contributed to the socioeconomic and cultural life of Oyo State and Nigeria?
The gallery has had a tangible impact on local development, particularly in Ibadan. With the train from Lagos now running efficiently, visitors come on weekends, stay in hotels, eat at local restaurants, and explore the city. This influx boosts local businesses.
Young artists have also benefited by showcasing their work and selling pieces, while many discover hidden talents. Educationally, culturally, and economically, the gallery has played a key role in inspiring people, supporting local commerce, and putting Ibadan back on the global map of contemporary art.
Where do you see the gallery in the next five years?
Honestly, planning ahead in Nigeria is challenging,you never know what will happen next. Ideally, I’d like to see similar galleries in other towns, like Iseyin, Eruwa, and Ogbomosho, so more communities can benefit. But I take a proactive approach: instead of expecting, I act on opportunities as they arise.
We also focus on leadership principles. Stephen Covey talks about “finding a voice and helping others find theirs”—that’s what we do here. We empower artists and the community to express themselves.
Your gallery has been compared to the historic Mbari Club in Ibadan. Can you elaborate on that?
Mbari Club, established in 1961, was foundational for Nigerian contemporary art, drama, and music. Artists like Wole Soyinka, Chinua Achebe, Bruce Onobrakpeya, and Duro Ladipo created a space for innovation and cultural healing.
Our gallery, which I named Mbari Mbayo, draws inspiration from that legacy. “Mbayo” means “beginning” or “creation,” symbolizing the start of something new. The space continues the spirit of artistic creation, healing, and community engagement.
How do you engage younger people in art through this gallery?
Over the years, I’ve trained around 30 artists from Nigeria, China, America, Europe, and across Africa. Many came through my previous studio, Toki Memorial Art Centre, which operated for 14 years. I provided training, mentorship, and even meals for students, especially those from less privileged backgrounds.
Supporting young artists is a lifelong commitment. Some of them now work internationally, but the foundation they received here, mentorship, guidance, and encouragement, remains central to what we do. We aim to inspire the next generation of creative voices.
