Móyòsóré Martins
ACCRA – ‘For One Night Only’
As part of Moyo’s residency in Senya Beraku Ghana we held a one-off exhibition of some of the works created and in progress at The Front Back Arts Club Accra.
“For One Night Only” was an exclusive art exhibition which took place on Sunday, May 12th, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM. This special occasion offered attendees the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the captivating works of Móyòsóré Martins, a Nigerian contemporary artist whose artistry transcends cultural boundaries. In collaboration with Front/ Back Accra, this event promised an evening of artistic exploration and cultural celebration, where artworks will be available for purchase.
“For One Night Only” invited art enthusiasts and cultural aficionados to experience Martins’ evocative creations firsthand. From 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, attendees had the opportunity to explore a curated selection of Martins’ paintings, each offering a window into the artist’s multifaceted identity and creative journey. An evening of artistic discovery and cultural immersion, with guided tours and interactive displays enhanced the viewing experience.
PARIS: MÓYÒSÓRÉ MARTINS
Móyò then debuted his first solo exhibition in Paris – “MÓYÒSÓRÉ MARTINS” – in October with TRAFFICARTS New York and the support of Asher & Michelle Edelman, Jerome Neutres, and Aurore Blanc.
“MÓYÒSÓRÈ MARTINS” opened on 16th October, on the eve of the Paris+ for Basel VIP Opening, at 8 Rue Chapon, in the heart of the Marais.
Among his other works, the exhibition highlighted artworks created during Martins’ Artist Residency with Arms Around The Child in Ghana.
Móyòsóré Martins’ created layered, textured compositions, where scratches and scrapes create wear and tear on the canvas, and symbolic patterns and messages keep you pouring over each piece. The word ‘Why?’ is seen in a lot of the work because it leaves you asking the same question” – Moyosore Martins for Forbes
Having spent time at university in Ghana before spending many years in the US, returning for the residency was akin to a return to Martins’ artistic roots. His time in Ghana had him turn his attention from his growth and achievements to how he can use his art to give back to the community.
“This painting was inspired by my experience of being present at the school in Ghana—at that very moment. Seeing things beyond myself. It’s about all the things the children lacked, like water, bedsheets, plates, cups, television. The ability to step out of my own bubble and see what the kids needed and that I could make a difference”
Móyò explained that a recurring figure in his Ghana inspired pieces was the “hungry cat.”
“This character embodies his insatiable hunger as an artist—for success, growth, and now, with a fresh perspective, a desire to uplift others. Reflecting on how far he has come, Martins recognizes the significant influence he wields and the potential he has to transform lives. The hunger is palpable, radiating a visceral energy that draws viewers in. The ever- expanding eyes symbolize his growing visibility, while the figure within the animal represents his subconscious, driving his creative journey.” – Traffic NYC
Móyòsóré Martins’ created layered, textured compositions, where scratches and scrapes create wear and tear on the canvas, and symbolic patterns and messages keep you pouring over each piece. The word ‘Why?’ is seen in a lot of the work because it leaves you asking the same question” – Moyosore Martins for Forbes
Having spent time at university in Ghana before spending many years in the US, returning for the residency was akin to a return to Martins’ artistic roots. His time in Ghana had him turn his attention from his growth and achievements to how he can use his art to give back to the community.
“This painting was inspired by my experience of being present at the school in Ghana—at that very moment. Seeing things beyond myself. It’s about all the things the children lacked, like water, bedsheets, plates, cups, television. The ability to step out of my own bubble and see what the kids needed and that I could make a difference”
Móyò explained that a recurring figure in his Ghana inspired pieces was the “hungry cat.”
“This character embodies his insatiable hunger as an artist—for success, growth, and now, with a fresh perspective, a desire to uplift others. Reflecting on how far he has come, Martins recognizes the significant influence he wields and the potential he has to transform lives. The hunger is palpable, radiating a visceral energy that draws viewers in. The ever- expanding eyes symbolize his growing visibility, while the figure within the animal represents his subconscious, driving his creative journey.” – Traffic NYC
Jerome Neutres comments, “Moyosore Martins’ painting talks to us about the true way of the world: a world and an art made of migrations, crossing the boundaries to exist, mixing cultures to invent a new one. Recently back to Ghana, where he studied, Moyosore experienced the fascinating and sometimes challenging return to the original roots. His latest works he presents in Paris testify of this exceptional Journey across the two worlds of the artist – art being the only way to make a symbiosis of it.”
The Paris exhibition was a success, with pieces from the residency selling and incredible funds being raised for Arms Around The Child’s partner projects in Ghana. We are honoured to have been featured alongside Moyo’s other incredible works, and incredibly grateful for his desire to continue working with us.
“We are deeply thankful for Moyosore Martins’ partnership and the lasting impact he made during his time at the Arms Around The Child Artists Residency in Senya Beraku. While creating his own work, Moyo also inspired the children at the Christian Atsu Education Centre, using art as a powerful tool to build their confidence and self-expression. His presence has left an indelible mark on the children, empowering them to believe in their potential and the value of their stories. Moyo’s contributions are integral to our mission of providing safety, education, and hope for the vulnerable children in Senya Beraku and the work of Arms Around The Child,” said Ellie Milner, Global Director Arms Around The Child.
The Artist:
Móyòsóré Martins is a visionary artist whose work reflects a fusion of diverse influences, blending elements of Afro-cultural heritage with a contemporary aesthetic sensibility. Born of Brazilian descent with roots in Nigeria, Martins’ upbringing and global travels have shaped his artistic vision, resulting in a body of work that is both deeply personal and universally resonant. His paintings, characterized by profound narrative depth, offer viewers a glimpse into the artist’s transcultural journey and rich cultural tapestry.
The ATTC Art Residency:
Martins’ artistic journey finds expression within the ATTC Art Residency, situated within the Christian Atsu Education Centre in Senya Beraku. This residency, established as part of Christian Atsu’s philanthropic legacy supporting Arms Around The Child, serves as a hub for artistic collaboration and experimentation. By fostering dialogue and exchange among artists from diverse backgrounds, the residency enriches the local community’s cultural landscape while promoting cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.
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