Karima Ashadu: Machine Boys

About the Exhibition

This exhibition centers on the 2024 video work 'Machine Boys' by Lagos-based artist Karimah Ashadu. It explores Lagos's informal economy, spotlighting in particular the daily lives of unlicensed motorcycle-taxi operators known as 'okada.' The work visually explores humans, machines, economy, and social relations within everyday urban space, revealing the complex reality of contemporary African cities. The exhibition comprises a single work, held at the Art Institute of Chicago. Through this video work, visitors can gain a deep experience of Lagos's urban fabric and the lives of the people within it.