Two solo exhibitions by Ohio painters Said Oladejo-Lawal and Linda Hutchinson are on view at the McConnell Arts Center in Worthington through August 28. Oladejo-Lawal's 'My Voice and Dance' features vibrant, swirling portraits of musicians and dancers inspired by his Nigerian childhood and love of classical music and jazz. Hutchinson's 'In Good Company' presents figurative paintings of people in everyday life, with a focus on musicians and visual rhythm. The exhibitions were curated by Michelle Tavenner and Lindsay Lisanti.
These shows matter because they highlight how two regional artists use distinct visual languages to capture the joy and energy of human activity, particularly music. By pairing Oladejo-Lawal's bold, expressionistic style with Hutchinson's rhythmic figurative approach, the McConnell Arts Center offers audiences a thoughtful exploration of portraiture and the intersection of visual art with music. The exhibitions also underscore the vitality of Ohio's local art scene and the importance of community-focused arts centers in presenting diverse artistic voices.