Laju Sholola's works capture the tender, candid emotions that shape our identities and growth. Through her minimalist lens, Sholola conveys these feelings in an abstracted figurative style; using a unique technique of layering tea-infused brush strokes, she intricately highlights the contrast between what is visible and what is concealed.

 

Her works, rendered in subdued monochrome tones and featuring serene subjects, invite viewers into a realm of calm and re flection. The figures, often portrayed in undergarments, nightwear, or swimwear, evoke a sense of vulnerability and introspection. Their averted gazes and closed eyes draw us into their private worlds, encouraging us to pause and re ect. In the quiet presence of Sholola's art, our own thoughts become amplied, prompting a deeper engagement with the emotions and narratives her pieces convey.

 

In pieces like "Grounding I" and "Grounding II", Sholola explores the theme of balance and readiness for movement. The subject in "Grounding I" hugs her knees in a crouched position, embodying a moment of introspection. In "Grounding II, "she assumes a stance reminiscent of a competitive runner, poised for action yet grounded, her focus directed beyond the viewer's gaze. These works capture the tension between stillness and motion, grounding and flight.

 

Sholola's depiction of solo, duo, and multiple subjects within her compositions speaks to the tranquility and quiet found even in company. In "Lucid Dream," four women lie close together, evoking a sense of comfort and camaraderie. These gures, comfortable in their silence, represent the welcome lull that follows a hearty conversation—a moment of rest before the next wave of thoughts and emotions. Through these varied compositions, Sholola explores the complex interplay between the desire for solitude and the need for companionship, highlighting the balance between introspection and connection.

 

Be Here Now is an invitation to connect deeply with the present moment, to declutter our minds and lives, and to embrace the beauty of stillness and introspection. We hope this exhibition inspires viewers to nd solace and inspiration in the quiet spaces, fostering a deeper understanding of their own journeys and transformations.