The World Acclaimed Ibadan based Artist and the custodian the famous Tunde Odunlade Art Gallery, Bodija, Ibadan, Mr Tunde Odunlade had a chat with the team of IbadanCity ANNOUNCER on My life and IbadanCity
Q: How long have you been living and working in Ibadan?
A: I’ve been living and working in Ibadan for a very long time. Ibadan has been a big blessing to me because my career started here. No matter where I go around the world, I always come back to Ibadan.
Q: Can you share an unforgettable experience you’ve had in Ibadan, whether good or bad?
A: As I mentioned before, I don’t dwell on bad experiences. The good thing is that what I’m doing now in Ibadan is good.
Q: Do you go to the gym in Ibadan?
A: I don’t go to the gym, but I do physical exercises to keep fit.
Q: Which area do you like the most in Ibadan?
A: I like all areas of Ibadan, both the urban and rural areas
Q: What are some things you like about Ibadan?
A: I like everything about Ibadan, and I must say that the current administration is doing a great job in the city.
Q: What is one thing you’ve seen in other cities that you would like to see in Ibadan?
A: There are many things I’ve seen in other cities that I would like to see in Ibadan, especially improved means of transportation. We could have more transportation options here.
Q: When you’re away from Ibadan, what do you miss the most?
A: I would say Amala and gbegiri, but now you can find restaurants serving those dishes even outside the country. So, I miss the fresh breeze and peaceful environment of Ibadan.
Q: Where is your favorite place to shop in Ibadan?
A: I don’t know much about shopping malls, but my favorite market is Gbagi for clothing materials and Bodija for buying food.
Q: What are your thoughts on the social life in Ibadan?
A: At Tunde Odunlade’s gallery, we engage in social activities. Ibadan used to be the center of culture and social activities in the West, but unfortunately, those activities have diminished and been replaced by frivolities. I believe in a cultural social life, which is rare now. We need to do better in bringing those activities back.
Q: Do you have a favorite restaurant in Ibadan?
A: I enjoy eating out, so there are several Amala joints that I frequent.
Q: What is your favorite radio or TV station to listen to?
A: I listen to a variety of radio stations depending on the programs. So, I have favorite programs rather than favorite stations.
Q: Under which local government is your house and business located?
A: My house is under Akinyele Local Government, and my art gallery is under Ibadan North.
Q: What is the most expensive thing you’ve purchased in Ibadan?
A: The most expensive thing I’ve bought in Ibadan is a good life, which is priceless.
Q: What is your favorite food?
A: My favorite food is anything with a corn meal. I love Amala and pounded yam too.
Q: Who is your favorite artist in Ibadan?
A: My favorite artists are the ones in my gallery. I have over 80 artists in my gallery, and I love them all.
Q: What is your favorite sport?
A: My favorite sport is football. I also enjoy playing table tennis and swimming.
Q: Who is your favorite fashion or business celebrity in Ibadan?
A: I don’t follow trends; I focus on what is good for me. So, I don’t have any favorite fashion or business celebrity.
Q: What do you think is the unique selling point of Ibadan? Is it the Micra, Amala, or 3Sc?
A: Both Amala and Micra serve as tools of tourism in Ibadan. Even the color of the Micra taxis in Ibadan reflects gbegiri and Amala. For me, the unique selling point of Ibadan is its tourism.
Report by JEDIDAH OGIDI for Ibadancity ANNOUNCER.
