The Dream of the Oldest Collector 2006

This intricate drawing is by Twins Seven Seven, a prominent figure in Nigerian modern art. Seven Seven’s work is deeply rooted in Yoruba mythology and culture. You see this in the complex layering of figures and patterns, creating a dreamlike vision that blends human and spirit worlds. Born in Nigeria during a period of significant cultural and political change, Seven Seven's art reflects the tensions between tradition and modernity. He was part of a generation of artists who sought to reclaim and celebrate their cultural heritage in the face of Western influence, using traditional stories and beliefs to comment on contemporary Nigerian society. To understand Seven Seven’s art more fully, one might explore Yoruba folklore, postcolonial African art history, and the role of cultural institutions in preserving and promoting indigenous art forms. His art shows us that the meaning of an artwork always relies on social and institutional contexts.