GR Gallery is thrilled to announce “Safe Space”, the first solo exhibition of Dennis Osadebe with the gallery, after two years of collaboration. The show will reveal the latest series conceived by the artist appositely for this occasion. These works are focused on the concept of a safe space as their point of departure, defined by Osadebe as a place to experiment, be yourself, reflect, enjoy, and dream, the works consider the spaces potential dimensions, the narratives that contain it and the theatre or spectacle that unfolds around it. Opening reception: Thursday February 18th, 3:00pm -7:00pm (Exhibition Dates: February 19 – March 12, 2021). Members of the press can contact GR gallery in advance to schedule a private viewing and an interview with the artist; RSVP is required for the vernissage and attendance will be regulated according to updated New York City health care guidelines.

On March 4th, to celebrate the release of a new limited edition print, Dennis Osadebe will be at the gallery to sign the prints in person.

“Safe Space” explores the duality between the physical and psychological roles that forge the foundations for locations of refuge and comfort, rather than solely focusing on a specific place. With the idea in mind that the creation of a safe space could be as simple as a group of people with shared ideas coming together. This is amplified by references to paintings by both Old and Contemporary Masters, key influences in Osadebe's practice, shown through the artists characters performing both mundane and sometimes charged actions. This body of works draws out a neoteric consideration towards a place where anyone can fully self-express, rid of any feelings of discomfort or unwelcoming, and asks the viewer to imagine what their safe space could look like, or be.

Dennis Osadebe is a Nigerian mixed-media artist, based in Lagos. Osadebe’s vibrant post-pop style is centered around the idea of reimagining Africa through the use of positive, provocative, and progressive imagery, and narratives, forging a dialogue where tradition meets invention and innovation. Through juxtaposing elements of the past alongside the present, while utilizing his Nigerian heritage as a starting point, Osadebe places Africa in the context of the future and its limitless possibilities. Osadebe is recognised for his repeated exploitation of subconscious imagery and elusive symbolism and pays concentrated attention to a specific object in this series, the book. Sighting books as a teleport into unique worlds of imagination, and feeders of information for us to utilise in the fruition of our own safe spaces.