19-year old artpreneur Bryan Ebbi lights New Year artistic fire with ‘Spontaneous Combustion’

By Anote Ajeluorou

Bryan Ebbi’s ‘The Art of Art’ in ‘Spontaneous Combustion’ graphic art show… in Lagos

THE Art Hotel (Gallery) on Plot 13A, Chief Yesufu Abiodun Oniru, near Four Point by Sheraton, Victoria Island, Lagos is currently hosting a unique graphic art exhibition by a youngster who describes himself as an artpreneur Master Bryan Ebbi, titled ‘Spontaneous Combustion’. The show that started on Saturday, January 4, will will come to a close on Friday, January 10, 2025. The show is from the stable of Bryan Choco and creator of ‘Canvas by Bryan™ ’, a youngster who has a keen eye for details and a philosophical bent of mind that glows throughout his first solo art exhibition. In his works, Master Ebbi shows his mastery of the world around him and projects this inspiring understanding through his works that are a combustible fusion of art forms, a collage of photography, graphic design and image simulation, all fused to produce stunning images that show a world on the verge of something new, explosive, combustible and glorious.

A statement from the artist spells out his thematic thrust thus, “’Spontaneous Combustion’ is a graphic exhibition that delves into the subtle yet potent sparks of human activity, beliefs, and emotions that fuel and expand the boundaries of our imagination. Each piece captures the transformative moments when simple experiences ignite a cascade of creative thought, propelling the mind beyond its usual confines. By emphasizing these moments of spontaneous inspiration, the exhibition explores how the smallest of impulses can set off a chain reaction, leading to new perspectives, ideas, and artistic expressions. It is an invitation to witness how imagination evolves from fleeting sparks into a powerful force that shapes human experience and understanding.

“’Spontaneous Combustion’ is an exhibition that delves into the spark of human imagination, showcasing art inspired by the fleeting moments, beliefs, and emotions that ignite our creative potential. Through each piece, viewers are invited to experience how small, often unnoticed impulses can catalyze profound journeys of expression and thought. The exhibition combines vivid colours, dynamic forms, and layered textures, symbolizing the intensity and unpredictability of inspiration.”

Key themes embedded in Ebbi’s works range from ‘The spark of creation and change’, Beliefs and Identity as Forces of Impact’, ‘Emotion as Catalyst for Transformation’, ‘Imagination Without Limits’ and ‘The Interplay of Decision and Destiny’.

Among some of Ebbi’s art pieces on display include ‘Supreme Intellect’, ‘Stardust Odyssy’, ‘Why Don’t We Leave It Alone’, ‘Rapture’ part 1, ‘The Art of Art’, ‘Spontaneous Combustion’. In ‘The Art of Art’, for instance, Ebbi touches on a turf many artists are familiar with during their creative process, as he “explores the intricate process of creating art and the celebration that follows. The danfo bus serves as a vibrant symbol of daily life in (Lagos) Nigeria, encapsulating the hustle, resilience and stories that shape our identity. Interwoven with the Nigerian flag, it reflects how our collective experiences as Nigerians influence the art we create. These influences give our creations a distinct voice, earning recognition and acclaim on the global stage. Ultimately, this work captures the journey from the ordinary rhythms of life to the extraordinary success that crowns us as artistic royalty.”

Ebbi is a unique graphic artist known for creating memories with visual arts. A budding Artpreneur, he has carved a niche with his brand, Canvas by Bryan™ that immortalizes memories with portraits. He developed a passion for art early on, inspired by his parents and the environment of consistent creativity he found himself in. Over time, Ebbi cultivated a graphic art style that tells stories that provoke the mind and illuminate the heart. ‘Spontaneous Combustion’ reflects Ebbi’s belief in the spark of human imagination and its everlasting flame, inviting viewers to ignite their creativity and set their minds ablaze.

Bryan Ebbi