Converging Realities: PJ Svedja and Joshua Owoicho

Exhibition Dates: February 7–May 3, 2025 Alice & William Jenkins Gallery February 7–August 30, 2025 Hannibal Square Heritage Center Visiting Exhibition Gallery Opening Reception: Friday, February 7, 2025 7–9pm at the Alice & William Jenkins Gallery 8–10pm at Hannibal Square Heritage Center | Visiting Exhibition Gallery with Live Music The combination of the realist works by Nigerian painter Joshua Owoicho and American painter P.J. Svedja offers distinct cultural influences while appreciating the similarities between the artists’ two worlds. Differences move to the background and the viewer is left to appreciate the profound emotional connection to nature and the desire to reconnect people with the natural world. The artwork intends to reawaken man's consciousness, guiding individuals to recognize their identity and connection to nature and spirituality. The concept of serving as an emissary of consciousness to guide others back to their true identity is a profound theme in both of the artists’ works. PJ Svedja studied at the Savannah College of Art and Design where she earned a BA in illustration and an MA in painting. Her career began in Atlanta as an instructor and exhibiting artist for 12 years before relocating to Orlando. Since 2019 she has had seven solo exhibitions, including the Axium Gallery and the Grant Bohemian in Orlando, and 20 group shows including Art Basel, Miami. She also created a permanent mural at Valencia State College, Osceola campus, and in 2020 she opened Studio ArtFarm, a community gallery and teaching studio in Mt. Dora. Joshua Owoicho hails from Benue state, born in the town of Keffi in the Nassarawa State of Central Nigeria. Founded by Fulani warriors, the former slave outpost was also a trade route for caravans heading north. As the youngest of six children, Joshua discovered he was artistic at the age of five, influenced by his elder brother, and began painting at the age of 12, eventually to apprentice for six years with Steve Abah, a renowned artist and musician in his community who taught him basics in painting and signage. Upon graduating from high school, he relocated to the Nigeria’s capitol of Lagos and in 2016 began work as a full-time artist, inspired by the old master's techniques. He has received major commissions for his mural and sculptural artwork, including from United Bank of Africa, Johnny Walker Corporation, and Bi-Courtney Aviation Service for the Murtala Muhammed International Airport Gallery. This exhibition will include help to raise awareness about the rights of nature and conservation efforts in Central Florida’s wildlife corridor.