Good Old Days by Azeez Okulaja

Artwork Overview
Title: Good Old Days
Artist: Azeez Okulaja
Medium: Acrylic and Oil on Canvas
Dimensions: 121 cm × 152 cm
Materials: High-quality acrylic and oil on premium canvas
Country of Origin: Nigeria
Signature: Yes
Year of Creation: 2024

Artistic Vision
“Good Old Days” depicts a stylish African woman from the 1960s, embodying beauty, elegance, and cultural pride. Seated in a rocking chair, she wears traditional attire, including an elaborate head wrap (Gele) and a beaded necklace, capturing the fashion and grace of the era. The vintage feel is heightened by the presence of a red rotary phone and a vase of flowers on a wooden table, blending traditional and modern elements. The use of colours and the grayscale depiction of the woman enhance her timeless beauty, while highlighting her significance as a symbol of African heritage and pride. The contrast between the woman’s monochrome form and the vibrant background emphasises her central role in the narrative.

Technique
This painting employs a masterful blend of acrylic and oil on canvas, combining realism with traditional African art aesthetics. Fine brushes and palette knives were used to carefully detail the delicate patterns of the woman’s clothing, the soft gradients of her skin, and the rich textures of the wooden furniture. The controlled contrast between the subject’s grayscale figure and the warm, vivid background creates a visual balance that draws attention to both the figure and her surroundings.

Significance and Inspiration
“Good Old Days” is inspired by the strength, grace, and resilience of African women, capturing their ability to hold space for beauty and purpose in everyday life. The woman’s seated posture symbolises calm contemplation, while the juxtaposition of modern props with traditional attire represents the intersection of the past and present. The red telephone is a symbol of nostalgia and human connection, while the sunflowers stand for joy, growth, and vitality. This piece honours the stories of African women from the 1960s, celebrating their cultural pride and timeless elegance.

Perfect for
This timeless artwork is perfect for a variety of spaces, whether in living rooms, offices, galleries, or cultural centres. Its symbolic depth and elegance make it an ideal statement piece for any environment, complementing both minimalist and traditional interiors. It is particularly well-suited for spaces that value cultural identity, storytelling, and artistic expression.

Why Choose “Good Old Days”?

Unique Artistic Expression: A fusion of realism and African art aesthetics, offering a visual story of cultural pride and personal strength.

Cultural Significance: Honors the legacy of African women and their resilience, symbolizing a blend of traditional and modern influences.

Investment in Art: A valuable piece that speaks to African heritage, modern elegance, and timeless beauty, making it a treasured addition to any collection.

Elevate your space with “Good Old Days” by Azeez Okulaja, available exclusively at AfriArtSpace.