When it comes to art, borders are just lines on a map, and creativity knows no bounds. This truth is exemplified by Jesudara Anjolaoluwa Hinmikaiye, a talented artist and a 400-level Visual Arts student at the University of Lagos (UNILAG). Currently embarking on a transformative journey, she is on a five-month exchange programme at the Hochschule für bildende Künste Hamburg (HFBK Hamburg), also known as the University of Fine Arts, Hamburg. In an exclusive interview with Edugist, Jesudara shares her artistic experiences and expectations from this unique opportunity.
Jesudara’s artistic journey began at UNILAG, where she chose to pursue visual and performing arts within the creative arts department. When asked about her inspiration for this path, she explained, “I decided to pursue visual arts at UNILAG because I intuitively believed it would be a great environment to develop my skills as an artist.” Her choice was driven by the desire to nurture her artistic talents within a conducive environment.
The opportunity for Jesudara to participate in the exchange programme arose through the Art School Alliance, which facilitates cultural exchanges between art students from different universities around the world. As she puts it, “It’s a programme organised by the Art School Alliance where students go on exchanges with fellow universities that are part of the programme. It was introduced to our department. I’m the second student to partake in the programme. It’s an ongoing programme that continues for years.” Her decision to apply for the programme was motivated by the prospect of broadening her horizons and experiencing a different artistic milieu.
In preparation for her sojourn in Germany, Jesudara has drawn on her experiences and education at UNILAG. The department’s ambiance has played a pivotal role in honing her skills and instilling in her the confidence and knowledge necessary to handle a variety of tasks and initiate projects. The academic and artistic support she has received has been instrumental in shaping her artistry.
Her five-month stay in Germany holds great promise, and Jesudara is filled with hopes and aspirations. She aspires to gain a clearer vision of her visual arts practice, believing that this experience will provide invaluable insights and inspiration. In addition to her artistic development, she looks forward to forming lasting connections with artists and art enthusiasts in Germany, which would undoubtedly enrich her artistic journey.
Jesudara’s art is not limited to a single medium; she believes that creativity knows no bounds, and her work reflects this diverse perspective. Her interests span various forms, including painting, textile design, digital illustration, and more. Her art mirrors her boundless imagination and her willingness to explore and experiment with different materials and techniques. This versatility is a testament to her open-minded approach to the world of art.
Cultural differences are an inevitable part of an international exchange program, and Jesudara is well aware of the challenges that lie ahead. She approaches these differences with grace, acknowledging that they are an integral part of the learning process. She intends to embrace the experience, learn from it, and use it as a source of inspiration for her art.
When discussing her artistic influences, Jesudara reveals that she draws inspiration from a wide range of sources. Her roots in Nigeria, its traditional textile designs, and the rich cultural tapestry have significantly influenced her work. Furthermore, she has been inspired by contemporary Western artists, literature, music, and various other forms of artistic expression. These diverse influences manifest in her art, creating a unique and captivating body of work.
The exchange programme in Hamburg represents a significant opportunity for personal growth and career development in the field of visual and performing arts. Jesudara anticipates that the programme will refine her approach to art, providing her with the time and space to reflect and enhance her work. As she immerses herself in the vibrant art scene of Hamburg, she will undoubtedly gain fresh perspectives and a deeper understanding of her artistic practice.
While Jesudara hasn’t settled on specific goals for her time in Germany, she remains open to the possibilities that await her. Her approach is one of curiosity and readiness to embrace whatever opportunities come her way. With her talent, determination, and open heart, she is bound to make the most of this transformative experience.
Jesudara’s journey from UNILAG to HFBK Hamburg is not merely a physical relocation but a soul-enriching odyssey that promises to shape her artistic identity in profound ways. With her boundless creativity, unwavering passion, and a genuine thirst for knowledge, Jesudara is set to leave an indelible mark on the global art community, bridging horizons between Nigeria and Germany, and inspiring artists everywhere to let their creativity flourish without borders.
