This weekend, the twin cities premiered artist Òmó Oba Adetomiwa Gbadebo. Gbadebo is a painter, a sculptor and a prince from the Nigerian royal Gbadebo family of Abeokuta. Each piece of art that he produces is inspired by his Yoruba heritage and the community that he grew up with. Gbadebo may call Nigeria home, but he currently resides in Minnesota. He showcased his art in Europe before finding his way to Minnesota earlier this year.

Gbadebo’s newest exhibit is titled “Ọba Kò so -Erú Ko Si Siwaju Sii” and translates to English as “The king did not hang. Slaves no more.” This exhibit made its debut at City Wide Artists in Minneapolis. City Wide Artists stayed up late for this premiere and for good reason. The locals, the media and the fans packed like sardines to catch a glimpse of Gbadebo’s exhibit.

The exhibit itself was stunning and eclectic. Gbadebo uses vivid color, everyday objects, hardware and even objects from the earth itself to tell a story of his life, to remember history and to promote globalism. The style is very contemporary and flooded with deep emotion. Most memorably, African statues pierced with nails and his usage of “sharp teeth” in his paintings which evoked anger and malice. However, his use of soft fabrics and baby pinks evoked a sense of calm and innocence.

The artists’ statement set the tone for the collection. Gbadebo’s exhibit aims to display how “Nature and staying connected to the earth is central to the theme – while community is at the heart of the message.” Suddenly, the use of wooden logs and stones make sense – it is Gbadebo’s way of staying connected with nature. Prince Gbadebo plans to “use his work as a tool to break the divide between Africa and the diaspora, and to create a greater sense of global community between all people.” This is clearly seen by the viewers of his art given his strong ties to his heritage through his usage of color and through the artifacts that he used in his art.

“The King Did Not Hang. Slaves No More.” Will be on display until Dec. 4 and entry is complimentary.