From Gray's to the Royal Scottish Academy: Ade Adesina's success story

RGU alumnus Ade Adesina has seen his career go from strength to strength since graduating. Originally from Nigeria, he studied at Gray's to pursue his passion for art. He is now known for pushing the limits of printmaking with his innovative work. He answered our questions to share more about his journey.

Can you tell us more about your career since graduation?

Since graduating in 2012 from Gray's School of Art, I've been fortunate with the direction my practice and artistic production have taken. I had opportunities to spend some time travelling around the world on art residencies and exhibitions. My artistic career to date has included some challenges but lots of dedication and a close focus on my practice has  overcome many of these challenges. 

Some of my career highlights would be being elected as a Royal Scottish Academician in 2017, which was an unexpected pleasure to me at the time, and the great honour of being recognised this way after just 5 years since my graduation at Gray’s. I was also awarded the Mario Avati Engraving Prize in Paris 2023 which led to my first solo exhibition in France at Academie des Beaux-Arts. The exhibition was a tremendous experience, and the hospitality offered by Academie des Beaux-Arts was phenomenal.

Where do you find the inspiration for your work? 

My work is a visual commentary around the ideas of ecology and our ever-changing world. I am fascinated by how the human footprint is affecting our planet. I am a traditional printmaker and I like to produce work in various ways and methods to tell a story or make a record of various issues about a particular time or event.

I combine my African cultural roots with British culture, producing work that makes people reflect on themselves and their histories. My practice is influenced by my experiences of travel and the imagery that I encounter. I enjoy researching and visualising the differences between countries both historically and culturally. My ideas come from the new places I’ve visited and I also source information from television and documentaries.

In the last decade, I produced works that were heavily influenced by issues surrounding climate change, deforestation, and wildlife. But in recent years, I've been making works that are statements or visual communications on global current affairs. I have also enjoyed opportunities to explore around the North East of Scotland and the Highlands. The landscape and wildlife of Scotland have always been a great source of inspiration and provide a calmness in my work.

Would you say RGU still has a big impact on your work?

I feel I still have a connection with RGU and Gray's School of Art and I remain in contact with most of my former tutors and professors, some of which are still working at the University. I was also a summer school short course tutor in Gray’s printmaking department until 2019.

I'm glad to return this year and to have this opportunity to exhibit some of my work in the lovely Sir Ian Wood Building with my exhibition entitled "Dome". Most of the skills that I now use in my professional career have been taught here at RGU and I'm happy to display my work, which doubles as evidence of my creative journey so far.

As you return to RGU for Black History Month, do you have anything to share as a former international student from Nigeria? 

After moving to Aberdeen for my studies in 2008, my experience in Scotland in general was and still is a positive one. As a Nigerian, I didn't feel out of place, and Scotland offers a lot of opportunities and support to develop yourself. With a lot of hard work and dedication, anything can be achieved. 

What do you think the RGU community can take away from your work?

Most works on display have a story or statement running through them that serves as a memory of the past, whilst bringing  into perspective possible futuristic scenarios. These themes reappear through the body of my work in this exhibition. I hope that the viewers and the RGU community reflect upon these themes and enjoy my work.