Isaiah Abiola

One of the reasons that Isaiah applied to the Billboard Showcase was because he wants to tell people stories that they might not have heard before through his art. One of Isaiah’s most powerful pieces of art is a set of portraits called Ibeji which depicts a set of bi-racial twins both wearing identical turbans. With help from the Showcase, Isaiah’s ‘Ibeji’ was displayed at Lincoln’s Usher Gallery as part of the recent ‘Art of the Now’ exhibition which showcased the breadth and talent of 100 artists across Lincolnshire. Isaiah’s work was one of 140 pieces to be selected from an open call entry of 900 pieces of artwork. 

Since joining the Showcase Isaiah’s feet haven’t touched the ground. As well as exhibiting at the Hammond House Gallery in Louth, Isaiah got the chance to exhibit as part of Afro-Caribbean day in Grimsby’s Freeman Street where he forged new connections within the Afro-Caribbean community. 

A highlight for Isaiah’s time on the Billboard has been the mentorship we helped secure for him with Annabel McCourt, one of Lincolnshire’s most successful contemporary artists. During their time together so far, Annabel offered vital advice and guidance, providing the kindling for inspiring, thought-provoking conversations around Isaiah’s practice and his artistic ambitions. 

This September Isaiah re-located from Grimsby to Birmingham for a brand new role. Building on the incredible body of work he has already produced, the move will help him further connect with new artistic practitioners and help him flourish as an artist. 

‘The mentorship with Annabel McCourt was a blessing,’ says Isaiah. ‘I am quite a quiet person but she’s encouraged me to get out there, connect with people and don’t be afraid to say what’s on my mind while helping me know what to expect when navigating the arts scene in the UK. 

The Showcase provided exactly what I needed as an artist; guidance, visibility and the community. I saw someone in the town centre and they said ‘I know you – you’re the artist! I saw your pictures on Facebook.’ So that visibility is there.  Working with Ted, Jessie and Annabel has helped refine not just my work but my thinking and ambition. It’s been what I need to help push me forward as an artist.’