Published on the occasion of the exhibition for Jefferson Jonahan at Omenka Gallery, Lagos. This show explores man in an unconscious state of mind as a metaphor for the sleepy state of several sectors of the Nigerian economy including security, transportation, education and health. Amongst the paintings on display is The Hopeful, a drawing of a female head on a base inclined towards the heavens. She seems hopeful and expectant as though waiting for a change in her fortune. Jonahan reduces her to a mere sculptural piece, representing her as if he could envisage her thoughts through her “physical still-expression” and focus on life’s challenges.