By: Goodluck E. Adubazi, Abuja.

In commemoration of International Men’s Day, Abuja’s cultural scene came alive as contemporary visual artist, Ameh Odachi, unveiled her thought-provoking exhibition, “Men, Mask & Meaning,” at the prestigious Orisun Art Gallery. The exhibition placed men’s mental health—a theme often drowned in silence—at the centre of national conversation.

Curated by renowned art professional Rowland Goyit, the showcase featured 30 striking works, split evenly between acrylic paintings and intricate beaded pieces. Each artwork peeled back the layers of the male experience, exploring themes of struggle, resilience, brokenness, healing, and hope. Odachi’s visual narrative examined the pressures, contradictions, and unspoken burdens that shape the journey of manhood.

A highlight of the event was a deeply engaging panel session anchored by Odachi herself. The discussion brought together respected voices—Imal Silver, Oluwa Bankole, Ahmed Bello, and Dr. Walter Olatunde—who dissected the complexities of masculinity in contemporary society. The panellists addressed how societal expectations fuel men’s silence around mental health, offering insight into healing, mentorship, and the cultural shifts needed to support men more effectively.

The panel also explored fashion as an evolving tool of male self-expression, emphasizing its liberating role in redefining modern masculinity. Attendees praised the session for creating a safe, stigma-free atmosphere that encouraged honest conversations around men’s fears, vulnerabilities, and aspirations.

The exhibition also featured works by supporting artist Zainab Ibrahim, whose five paintings drew admiration for their emotional clarity and technical elegance.

Speaking to journalists, Odachi revealed that the project was inspired by her father and the largely unacknowledged sacrifices men shoulder. She recounted a pivotal childhood moment when she sensed her father’s emotional breaking point, leaving him a note: “Dad, do not make any decision when your decision maker is broken.”

“Later that day,” she said, “he confided in me for the first time. That was the first time I heard the word suicide. This exhibition is personal. It was born from watching a man I deeply loved wrestle with silence and despair. Many men carry similar weights behind calm faces. Men, Mask & Meaning reflects masculinity not as a fixed identity but a spectrum of emotions and contradictions.”

President of the Society of Nigerian Artists, Mohammed Sulaiman, lauded the initiative, stressing the importance of recognizing men as society’s stabilizing pillars. “This exhibition honours men in high-pressure roles—military officers, responsible fathers, hardworking professionals—whose sacrifices often go unnoticed,” he said.

Dr. Walter Olatunde urged older men to mentor the younger generation, especially in political awareness. “Politics shapes the environment of young men’s success. They must understand policies to challenge harmful laws,” he stated.

Architect and artist Oluwa Bankole commended the exhibition’s thematic strength, noting that fashion and self-expression significantly boost men’s confidence. He praised the gallery for creating a nurturing space for men’s dialogue.

Panelist Ahmed Bello called for stronger support networks among men. “In today’s tough economy, men must build friendships that allow them share experiences and gain strength,” he advised.

Also speaking, Imal Silver underscored the role of art in building healthier societies and emphasized mentorship. “Each generation brings new young men. Older men must lead by example—not just speak, but embody the values they want to pass on,” he said.

As visitors departed the Orisun Gallery, many described the exhibition as a transformative experience—one that not only celebrated men but also challenged society to listen more closely to stories often hidden behind their quiet resilience.