Ilorin-based professional photographer and visual artist, Mary Oladimeji Ajado, is set to host her first solo exhibition titled “Emblems of the Ilorin Matrimony” on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at the Ilorin Innovation Hall.
Ajado, who runs MOAJ Media Consult, transitioned into photography after more than two decades in catering and hotel management.
Speaking ahead of the exhibition, she explained that her passion for people and culture drives her artistry.
“Photography is one powerful way you capture and freeze in time the lives that people live. For me, it’s about preserving heritage and telling the Ilorin story visually,” she said.
The exhibition will highlight three symbolic elements of Ilorin’s traditional weddings: the turban, the sonyan cloth, and the henna designs worn by brides.
According to Ajado, these emblems reflect the richness of Ilorin culture and deserve to be documented for posterity.
She noted that one of her biggest challenges has been the poor perception of photography as a profession.
“It’s amazing how people undervalue photography, not realizing it is a powerful tool for preserving culture and educating the next generation,” she said.
The ticketed event will begin with a special preview for invited guests at 11 a.m., followed by general access.
Ajado expressed hopes that the exhibition will spark greater appreciation of Ilorin’s cultural heritage and encourage government and private investors to support the preservation of traditions through visual arts.
“My message is simple: value life, value people, and value culture. Photography is not just about taking pictures—it’s about preserving history and telling our stories,” she added.
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