‘Judgement’ by Lanre Olagoke - huge hand signed lithograph - framed

This is a stunning, very large, very high quality lithograph of 'Judgement', a painting by Lanre Olagoke, an accomplished British Nigerian artist living in London. The lithograph is very large (check dimensions below) and the edition is limited to 250 pieces. The one for sale here is 1/250, which adds significantly to the value. The piece is hand signed, titled and numbered by the artist. The lithograph is bespoke framed, using very high quality materials, which suits the art perfectly. The mount is also high quality and the framing was overseen by the artist. It really is impossible to do justice to this picture with a camera - it really is magnificent. It will provide a large, striking statement for your home or office.

In the words of the artist ...

'I never know what I'm going to paint when faced with a blank canvas, it's more of a form of spiritual empowerment that takes over once I get to work. I will start with painting a layer of yellow acrylic paint, and upon that I will build whatever decides to take shape or form, using hands, the back of a blunt instrument, building and building. Never throwing anything away, I always recycle old paint as it takes on a special texture of its own which adds to the artwork. Any work can take up to 3 years before I’m satisfied with it. I’ve loved using my hands since I was a young child and I love texture so my pieces tend to be more three-dimensional, than flat. I usually listen to Miles Davis while I paint and when in my element a superior being inside me takes over. It’s an emotional, awesome experience. I always know when I have finished a painting, because the shapes that are formed come alive and I am left spiritually fulfilled.'

Biography
Lanre was born in London in 1962. Aged four his family moved back to Nigeria, where he grew up before returning to London aged nineteen. From an early age he loved colours and started painting at age five.

Lanre's paintings tell of his journey from homelessness to hope. He came from an affluent Nigeria family, but a lack of cultural understanding of the the importance of art led him on a downward spiral to the streets. Drugs and gambling led Lanre from being a promising student to homelessness on the streets of London. 'People, including my family, thought I had gone crazy', says Lanre. But the young painter found solace in his work.

An early inspiration was Ben Enwonwu, the first African to receive the honour of sculpting Her Royal Highness the Queen, resulting in the bronze portrait of 1957. 'I first met Professor Ben Enwonwu in 1985-87 and became an apprentice under the great man. It was an honour to be in the presence of a legend. He told me to always remember that no one can be like Lanre, and that the talent I have been given will make me great. He was my mentor and my inspiration.'

Lanre also gathers his inspiration from life experiences and his surrounding environment. He has exhibited worldwide, including New York, Los Angeles, Berlin, Barcelona and London. Jazz was an inspiration too and great musicians, including Cassandra Wilson and Lekan Babalola, collected his works. Each of Lanre's piece illustrates specific points in his life, using an incredible use of colour and light. His work captures pictorial rhythms and colour harmonies that are truly unique.

'I am thrilled that after my journey from homelessness to the stability of my own home and family, my work now helps others who, like me, didn't think it possible for their lives to be turned around.'

'I never gave up; painting was my joy. Whenever I paint I am happy, and if I'm going through pain all I need is a brush and paint. I no longer need drink or drugs - I have found pride in my creativity. I love people and my travels through America, Europe and Africa have given me a wealth of knowledge and an understanding of people and their uniqueness. This has influenced my work greatly. An intellectual approach to my art is not necessary. Emotion is beyond intellect. Reality is not always logical, but it is within us all.'

A magnificent picture by an established listed artist that will be much admired in your home or office. Will provide a strong financial investment as well as a possession to enjoy. You are welcome to return for a full refund if you are not entirely happy. Also, please feel free to view at our central London showroom.