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Bukola OrioyeAsake Bee Keeper - Symbolic African Portrait in Mixed Media (Oil & Acrylic)2022
2022
$2,930
£2,221.02
€2,593.26
CA$4,104.09
A$4,619.88
CHF 2,444.45
MX$57,303.93
NOK 30,199.34
SEK 28,883
DKK 19,347
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About the Item
“Beekeeper” is a distinctive work that fuses cultural heritage, symbolism, and contemporary portraiture in a way that is both elegant and thought-provoking. The painting showcases a central female figure wearing the traditional Shuku hairstyle; a Yoruba style historically reserved for women of high regard, making a powerful statement on identity, ancestry, and African femininity. The inclusion of water lilies adds a layer of symbolism around resilience and renewal, further enriching the narrative.
What truly sets this piece apart is its metaphor: the “beekeeper” as a quiet, protective presence someone who nurtures sweetness while bearing the risk of the sting. It speaks to unseen labor, cultural preservation, and spiritual guardianship. This poetic symbolism, combined with bold composition and color, makes it emotionally resonant and visually memorable.
Why is it worth the price?
This painting is an investment in both visual excellence and cultural significance. As an original piece by Bukola Orioye; a rising figure in contemporary African art “Beekeeper” offers both aesthetic value and narrative richness. The work stands at the intersection of tradition and modernity, making it attractive to collectors who value originality, symbolism, and emerging talent.
In addition to its artistic merit, the piece is rendered in high-quality oil and acrylic on canvas with professional finishing, ensuring long-term preservation. It includes a Certificate of Authenticity and is part of a cohesive, evolving body of work that is gaining international attention.
“Beekeeper” is a 36 x 36 inch square-format painting with rich, layered brushwork and vibrant, contrasting colors. The figure’s calm posture, combined with precise details like the braided Shuku and the soft flow of lilies, create a serene yet powerful visual experience.
The piece is in excellent condition. It is professionally stretched, with clean edges, and is ready to hang. The surface has been carefully sealed for durability and is free of scratches, dents, or discoloration.
What is the background or history?
Created in 2022, “Beekeeper” belongs to Bukola Orioye’s ongoing Life & Culture series, which reflects on African identity, spiritual continuity, and cultural labor. Orioye draws from his Yoruba roots, often exploring the intersection of African symbols with presentday human experiences.
This piece reflects his growing interest in using portraiture to tell layered stories of femininity, heritage, survival, and personal agency. It is a continuation of the artist's commitment to "questioning the present through the past for a better future."
What details would be useful for a potential buyer to know?
Original Work (not a print or reproduction)
Medium: Oil and acrylic on canvas
Size: 36 x 36 inches
Condition: Excellent; sealed and ready to hang
Includes Certificate of Authenticity
Ships worldwide, professionally packed
Part of a larger, developing body of work, valuable for collectors seeking thematic continuity
Suitable for collectors, curators, and spaces focused on African art, cultural narratives, or bold contemporary portraiture.
- Creator:Bukola Orioye (Nigerian)
- Creation Year:2022
- Dimensions:Height: 36 in (91.44 cm)Width: 36 in (91.44 cm)Depth: 3 in (7.62 cm)
- Medium:
- Movement & Style:
- Period:
- Condition:
- Gallery Location:Ibadan, NG
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU2878216525602
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