Akintola Hezekiah's work embodies a contemporary approach to both aesthetics and sustainability, emphasizing the transformation of discarded materials into expressive sculptures. This specific piece, a mechanical dog sculpture, reflects several key aspects of his style and artistic philosophy:
Hezekiah’s choice to use junk metal and gears illustrates his commitment to environmental consciousness. His work aligns with the concept of upcycling, giving new life to industrial waste, conveying the message that beauty and value can emerge from what society discards.
Hezekiah's has a fondness for sculpting animals, as seen in this piece. The mechanical and industrial elements suggest a fusion of technology with organic life, symbolizing the increasingly blurred boundaries between the natural world and human-made environments. This dog sculpture, with its gears and wheels, might represent loyalty and service in a modern, mechanized society.
The use of gears, chains, and machine parts suggests motion, interconnectedness, and energy. These materials convey a sense of dynamism, implying that even inanimate objects have stories to tell and energy to offer. It also draws attention to the potential harmony between art, mechanics, and nature.
Coming from Lagos, a bustling urban environment, Hezekiah is deeply inspired by the intersection of urbanity and nature. His works are emotionally resonant, often evoking themes of resilience and adaptation—qualities found in both city life and in this hybrid depiction of a mechanical animal.
Technology is a prominent influence in his art, as reflected in the robotic, industrial feel of this sculpture. Furthermore, Hezekiah often explores music and emotional expression in his work. If viewed through that lens, this piece could symbolize rhythm and movement—much like a machine or a musical beat that never stops.