Global photographers converge on Ibadan, celebrate beauty of Everyday Life

FOR many people, everyday life unfolds in familiar routines that often go unnoticed. Yet, for photographers, these ordinary moments can become powerful visual stories that preserve memories, document cultures, and inspire reflection. It was this idea that formed the heart of the sixth edition of the annual international photography exhibition held in Ibadan.

Curated by renowned photographer and visual artist, Nseabasi Akpan, this year’s exhibition, themed “Everyday Life,” brought together photographers from Nigeria and several countries across Europe to explore the richness of daily human experiences through the lens of camera. The exhibition was held at the National Museum, Ibadan, with support from the African Culture Fund.

The event showcased a diverse collection of works that captured the essence of ordinary existence — from family life and community interactions to work, leisure, celebrations, and personal moments. Through compelling images, the participating artists invited viewers to pause and appreciate the details that often escape attention in the rush of everyday living.

Among the Nigerian photographers featured were veteran photographer, Thadeus Adeyemi Omotoyinbo, whose photographs documented wedding ceremonies from the 1970s; Ademola Bamigbelu, known for capturing dramatic moments on football pitches; and Caleb Ishaya Oseshi, whose works examined Nigerians’ relationship with mobile phones and digital culture. Their contributions offered audiences a blend of nostalgia, social commentary, and contemporary realities.

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The exhibition also highlighted the international appeal of the Ibadan photography gathering. Artists from Spain, Poland, Serbia, and The Netherlands joined their Nigerian counterparts, transforming the event into a platform for global artistic exchange and cross-cultural dialogue.

Speaking during the opening ceremony, Akpan described photography as a medium capable of transforming ordinary moments into lasting memories. According to him, the exhibition celebrates everyday life through images that observe, interpret, and document experiences that shape people’s daily existence.

Reflecting on the origin of the initiative, Akpan explained that the idea emerged during the COVID-19 lockdown when he envisioned creating a platform where photographers from around the world could exhibit their works, connect with one another, and build professional networks in Ibadan while commemorating World Photography Day. Since its debut in 2021, the exhibition has continued to grow in scope and international participation.

Beyond showcasing artistic excellence, the exhibition serves as a source of inspiration for emerging photographers. Akpan believes that photography should be viewed not only as a creative pursuit but also as a viable professional career. He stressed the importance of exposing young people to photography and visual storytelling, arguing that such engagement can help them recognise the vast creative and economic opportunities within the field.

One of the exhibition’s most captivating attractions was a collection of wedding photographs taken in 1971 by veteran photographer, Omotoyinbo.

The images offered visitors a glimpse into the fashion, customs, and social life of an earlier era, demonstrating photography’s unique ability to preserve history for future generations.

There were artists from Spain (Professor Antonio Aragon Renuncio), Poland (Filip Wierzbicki-Nowak), The Netherlands (Jacqueline Dersjant, Rob Godfried and Kitty Van Vlaanderen), Serbia (Katarina Radovic), South Africa (Laurence Moorcroft), Zambia (Maingaila Muvundika), Italy (Silvia and Massimo), Ghana (Asamoah William) and Germany (Stan Lafleur).

Nigerian photography artists included Abel Oluwole, Jude Hindan, Juliet Ebute and Victor Oluwayoju.

The one-week exhibition reinforced a timeless truth: extraordinary stories are often hidden within ordinary moments. By documenting the rhythms of daily life, the photographers not only captured images but also created enduring records of human experience, reminding audiences that beauty can be found in the seemingly mundane.