Abstract:
The modern artist is in constant search of access to improve technology that makes possible the use of foreign medium, tools and devices as a result of constant demand of our growing society. This new trend has drastically shifted the focus of most African artists who clamour for the aesthetics and to ‘what is selling now syndrome’. Ikwuemesi (n.d.) concur with this view as he says “In the aftermath of post-modernism when it remained fashionable for artists to return to their roots and history in search of an identity Nigerian art, like much of other African art, has become very eclectic”. The researcher is influenced by the earthiness and spontaneity of some African art media. And if you look back, you will understand that since the emergence of cubism, the Europeans have always look to Africa for something novel. This research work titled: Development of Sculpture with Organic Forms: an Exploration with Calabash for the Exterior space, is not intended to introduce a new medium that could compete or substitute stone, steel or marble in terms of durability. It is however an exploration with organic medium to stretch its limit as to be placed out door. Let us not be deceived, nothing is actually permanent, rather great ideas attached to the most mundane of medium possesses the tendency to outlive the generation of its maker.
This research work provides in print, the experience of the several processes the researcher undertook both in and out of the studio in a bid to establish calabash as a viable medium for sculpture that can survive outdoor.
