Celebrated artist Olamide Jasanya, recognized as one of the top 10 painters to watch in 2022, was among the select exhibitors featured at the prestigious MOBO Fringe Launch. The event, held at The Glasshouse International Centre for Music in Newcastle, was a collaboration between Newcastle City Council, MOBO, and Generator. It served as a platform to celebrate local businesses and creative talents while building anticipation for the 29th edition of the MOBO Awards, scheduled for Tuesday, February 18, 2025.
Jasanya captivated attendees with his striking piece, Tale of Two, a deeply personal work that explores the resilience, survival, and joy within the Black migrant experience. The painting tells the story of two young African talents who, despite the struggles of relocation and adaptation, have managed to thrive while preserving their cultural identity.
Speaking on the significance of exhibiting at the MOBO Fringe Launch, Jasanya shared:
“Tale of Two is a piece that I hold incredibly dear to my heart because it reflects the experiences of so many young Black creatives who have had to navigate immense challenges just to be seen, heard, and appreciated. It tells the story of survival, of defying the odds, and of maintaining joy despite adversity. To have this work showcased as part of the MOBO Fringe Launch—a platform dedicated to amplifying Black excellence—is truly an honour.”
The MOBO Fringe Launch provided a dynamic space for artists, entrepreneurs, and cultural leaders to connect and highlight the impact of Black creativity in the UK. Jasanya’s work stood out as a powerful representation of this theme, resonating deeply with attendees and reinforcing his growing reputation as a formidable talent in contemporary art
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With this latest achievement, Olamide Jasanya continues to carve out a remarkable career in the UK’s creative landscape, using his artistry to tell compelling stories that celebrate resilience, migration, and the beauty of the Black experience.
