Ijinle: The Aisha and Gbenga Oyebode Collection

The impulse behind the publication of this book originally came from the Oyebode family's desire to create a database that would contain all the artworks in their collection. However, this was not the only reason: Ijinle is also a response to the need for a proper record of art collections in Nigeria, and is therefore an invaluable resource for scientific and academic research, as well as an indispensable reference work for establishing the authenticity of artworks in Nigerian social, cultural, and institutional history. It is no accident that in the Yoruba language the word Ijinle is closely linked etymologically to the concept of digging and searching for precious stones.

The collection is the result of more than 30 years of unsystematic accumulation, which did not follow any preestablished pattern but depended merely on a work's impact and the artist's talent. Works are located in various private residences, offices, and facilities across three different continents: Lagos, in Africa; the United Kingdom, in Europe; and Connecticut, in North America. The collection contains examples of indigenous art and modern and contemporary art.

Both local artists and internationally renowned masters are represented, as well as young artists at the start of their careers. All are, of course, Nigerian, although their works employ a wide variety of techniques (painting, photography, metal and wood installations, mixed media). While the collection is wide ranging, the book concentrates on works that fall into the category of modern and contemporary art.

This covers a total of more than 400 artworks that began to be recorded in 2016. Artists represented include Bruce Onobrakpeya, Twins Seven Seven, El Anatsui, Victor Ehikhamenor, Tayo Adenaike, Ben Osaghae, Segun Aiyesan, Oresegun Olumide, Emmanuel Ekpeni, Tayo Quaye, George Osodi, Samuel Ajobiewe, Joe Amenechi, Olusegun Adejumo, and Peju Alatise.