Nifemi Marcus-Bello Transforms Copper into Art in 'Oríkì (Act III): Whispers of a Trail'
On view in Los Angeles until April 5.
Marta Gallery presents Oríkì (Act III): Whispers of a Trail, the latest exhibition by Lagos-based artist and designer Nifemi Marcus-Bello. As the concluding chapter in the “Oríkì“ series, this collection delves into the politics of material extraction, refinement and procurement, all centering on copper as its core element.
Copper, abundantly mined in central Africa’s copperbelt – spanning northern Zambia and the southeastern Democratic Republic of Congo – is paradoxically scarce on the continent due to global demand and complex supply chains. Despite being a critical resource, much of the copper extracted is exported for processing and later re-imported at a premium, underscoring the economic paradoxes that Marcus-Bello examines in his work.
For Whispers of a Trail, Marcus-Bello has crafted four sculptural designs that serve dual purposes, encompassing tabling, seating and lighting. Each piece highlights the adaptability and resilience of copper while reflecting the labor-intensive processes behind its use. The “Daybed” features a single-mold cast base that seamlessly extends from a chair, unified by a shared backrest and topped with a candle holder. The “Headrest” is a curved copper span designed to support both sitting and reclining postures. The “Side Table” is a cantilevered copper surface perched atop grey bricks, its brilliance evoking the gleam of a freshly minted coin. The “Charcoal Lamp” incorporates slender constructions of both copper and reclaimed American pine, with the blackened wood symbolizing Africa’s diminishing ebony reserves.
By merging material history with sculptural functionality, Marcus-Bello transforms copper into a medium for storytelling, illuminating the continent’s economic dependencies and resource exploitation. His work challenges conventional perceptions of raw materials, highlighting their historical and cultural significance.
Adding to the momentum, the artist is also featured in MoMA’s recently opened exhibition Pirouette: Turning Points in Design. Curated by Paola Antonelli, this showcase highlights groundbreaking designs that have reshaped industries and influenced everyday life.
For further details on Oríkì (Act III): Whispers of a Trail, visit Marta’s official website.
Marta
3021 Rowena Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90039
