Omenka Gallery is pleased to present Alegría, a solo exhibition by South American painter Mariana Larralde, running from May 24 to 31, 2025. Curated by Ayọ̀ Akínwándé, the collection of works offers an intimate and celebratory glimpse into the heart and soul of Lagos, Nigeria, as experienced through the keen eyes of an artist who has called the city home for over a decade.
In Alegría, Larralde moves beyond superficial portrayals to capture the essence of joy as it manifests in the daily lives of Lagosians. Her canvases pulse with the rhythm, resilience, and vibrant colours that define the city. Through vivid brushwork and a documentary-like sensitivity, Larralde reveals the beauty found in unexpected places: the infectious laughter of children against urban backdrops, the sculptural beauty of weathered fishing boats under the sun, and the unwavering playfulness that thrives in humble communities. Having immersed herself in the fabric of Lagos for over 12 years, Larralde brings a deeply personal and authentic perspective to her art. Her colours are not merely bright; they are imbued with the intense heat of the Lagos sunlight and the indomitable spirit of its people. Each painting radiates an energy that captures fleeting moments – the saturated hues of a girl's dress, the shimmering reflection of water, and the dynamic movement of patterned fabrics.
Alegría is more than just an exhibition of beautiful paintings; it is an offering, a testament to the strength and joy that Lagosians carry like a banner amidst the city's dynamism. Larralde's portraits invite viewers to look closer, to move beyond surface impressions and discover the profound beauty in presence, in a playful gesture, and in a moment suspended between light and shadow.
"Joy in Lagos isn’t simply an emotion,” says Mariana Larralde. “It’s an act of defiance, a choice to see and celebrate beauty even when circumstances are challenging. Alegría is my tribute to the spirit that sustains us.”
About the Artist
Mariana Larralde is a contemporary visual artist and dancer who has been living and working in Lagos, Nigeria, for over 12 years. She holds a BA in Fine Arts (Painting) from the Instituto Universitario de Estudios Superiores de Artes Plásticas Armando Reverón in Caracas, Venezuela, and studied contemporary dance at the Taller de Danza de Caracas, founded by José Ledesma. Her artistic development was profoundly influenced by mentorships and collaborations with notable Venezuelan artists, including Antonieta Sosa and Luis Lizardo.
Born in Lima, Peru, she carries within her the rich tapestry of a diasporic identity, woven from Venezuelan, Basque, Peruvian, and Argentinian roots. Her life journey, spanning seven countries across three continents, has profoundly shaped her creative practice, imbuing it with a deep understanding of movement and cultural hybridity.
Larralde's practice bridges documentary observation with expressive abstraction, focusing on themes of community, memory, and the everyday acts that shape our sense of belonging. Her paintings have been exhibited internationally, garnering recognition for their unique perspective and powerful emotional resonance.
In addition to her dedicated studio practice, Larralde has shared her passion for art as an IB Visual Arts teacher in international schools for over 18 years. In this role, she mentors young artists, fostering critical engagement with both personal and global themes. Her commitment to education mirrors her own artistic exploration, both deeply rooted in experimentation, intercultural dialogue, and embodied experience.