Last weekend, students of Chrisland Schools stepped out in an impressive manner to show over 240 breathtaking works at their maiden group exhibition held at Adeline Gallery, Lagos.

Titled “Beyond Imagination,” the show marked the beginning of a new reality in the school’s creative arts curriculum.

Coordinated by the Principal of Chrisland High School, Lekki, Kolawole Cole Bewaji, the show featured an eclectic mix of paintings, drawings and mixed media by students across various age groups. The works, which revealed originality and emotional depth, were widely commended by guests.

Speaking at the event, Managing Director of Chrisland Schools, Mrs Ibironke Adeyemi, commended the young artist who worked tirelessly with their paintings and drawings, saying, “I noticed many of the students are really special and talented not only in arts but in their academics.”

She added, “at Chrisland Schools, we appreciate talent and we know children have different gifts from God, this art exhibition is to motivate them so that they can go higher in life and I believe this will be a challenge for them.”

Speaking on the depth the exhibition’s theme, Bewaji revealed that “Beyond Imagination” emerged from brainstorming sessions with students about the creative process.

“It’s not just about imagination. Observation, emotion, and representation also matter. What began as a plan for 120 artworks grew to over 240, because the students couldn’t stop creating.”

One of the exhibitors, Chimamanda Anaele, expressed gratitude for the platform provided by the school to show their works. He said: “I used to draw in primary school, but I stopped to focus on academics. This exhibition revived that passion. Most of my artworks reflect my joyful mood, painted in bright colors like pink and white.”

Among the works on display was The Garden of Eden by a Year 10 student, Ejire Wisdom, which captivated guests, especially collectors.

“I wanted something easy on the eyes,” Ejire explained, noting that two of his works had already been sold for N60,000 and N50,000, respectively.

Commenting on the works, renowned art scholar and former Provost of the Federal College of Education, Professor Kunle Filani, said: “This is not child’s play. The quality and originality of these works are astounding. Some could easily pass for professional art. It’s clear these students are being mentored in the right direction.”

Filani said the initiative, no doubt, had instilled a growing sense of professionalism in the young artists. “Some works are already tagged and up for sale. That’s a step toward building a sustainable creative career from a young age.”

Guinness World Record holder and visual artist, Dr. Gbadamosi Adefemi, known globally for creating the largest painting by an individual, also lauded the exhibition. “I am completely blown away. I’m definitely picking up a few pieces today,” he said. “Parents must support this kind of talent. I’m a doctor and an artist; it’s possible to be both.”

The Chairman of Society of Nigerian Artists, Lagos chapter, Prince Kolawole Olojo- Kosoko, said, “this is the beginning of a creative revolution. These young artists are not just painting; they’re asking bold questions through art.”

Speaking at the event, Taiwo George-Taylor, a visual artist, said: “Art is more than decoration. It is more than a beautiful painting on a wall or a drawing in a sketchbook.”

Art is a language — a powerful language that speaks without words. It allows us to express what we feel, what we think, and what we dream. And when we dare to push past what we already know — when we go beyond imagination — we unlock ideas that can shape the world.”

According to him, “the theme of this exhibition is not just poetic — it is a challenge. It is an invitation to break the boundaries of what we think is possible. Going beyond imagination means asking bold questions: What if? Why not? What else can I see? It means refusing to settle for the ordinary, and instead reaching for something new, something daring, and something meaningful.

“And today, here at Adeline Gallery, I see the same spirit in each of you. The artworks displayed here at the gallery are not just creative — they are courageous. They reflect deep thought, strong emotion, and unique vision. And that is what art should do — it should challenge, it should inspire, and it should open our minds to new ways of seeing.”