Artist unveils exhibition inspired by recovery from paralysis

A visual artist, Amina Olajide, has unveiled an art exhibition inspired by her recovery from partial paralysis following a road accident in 2021.

Olajide, the founder of Artitude Central, an art, recreational and wellness centre in Abeokuta, Ogun State, said painting played a significant role in restoring the use of her right hand after it became partially paralysed in the accident, which claimed about eight lives.

Speaking at the unveiling on Thursday, Olajide described surviving the accident as a miracle, noting that the experience changed her relationship with her body, creativity and perception of life.

She said several people offered different remedies during her recovery, including religious and traditional interventions, based on their personal beliefs and experiences.

However, she explained that she took to painting as a way of exercising her affected hand and gradually regaining its use.

“Truthfully, we tried everything, but the only thing that eventually got this hand working was painting.

• Yayi renews promise to youth empowerment
• FG, Ogun probe recurring gas leaks
• Family denies land grabbing allegations against Ogun monarch

“I told myself that I had just got married and would eventually have children. How would I nurture my children on my own if my hand remained paralysed?

“So I made sure I put my brush in my hand. I tied my wrist to the brush and started painting,” she said.

Olajide said the experience transformed her understanding of art, which she previously viewed largely from an aesthetic and commercial perspective.

She explained that painting became an important part of her healing process and eventually inspired her to establish Artitude Central as a space where art, creativity and wellness intersect.

Olajide said the exhibition also explored the importance of religious tolerance and peaceful coexis.