“Revival Boats” (2023)
Medium: Original Alumbro Metal Plates from the Cutty Sark Boat (1963) Folded into origami.
Size: Varies
“Revival Boats” explores the experiences of second-generation African migrants returning to their ancestral lands to rebuild and reconnect with their roots. This origami fleet symbolizes revival, representing the resurgence of cultural identity, heritage, and community bonds.
Each boat encapsulates a personal journey of rediscovery and renewal, serving as a powerful symbol of resilience and determination. They embody the spirit of those embarking on this transformative return to their heritage.
The artwork also highlights the historical context of Nigerian migration to Britain. In the 1960s, civil and political unrest in Nigeria prompted many refugees and skilled workers to migrate to Britain. This wave of emigration intensified in the 1980s with the collapse of the petroleum boom, bringing larger numbers of Nigerians to British shores. Additionally, the work draws parallels to the Black Atlantic history during the slave trade, reflecting on migration’s historical and contemporary dimensions.
“Revival Boats” stands as a poignant reminder of these migrations and the enduring connection between past and present journeys.