British-Nigerian artist Yinka Ilori presents his first solo gallery exhibition, "He Who Laughs Last, Laughs Best," at Cristea Roberts Gallery in Mayfair, London. The show explores themes of grief and joy following the death of his mother in September 2023, featuring kaleidoscopic prints, hand-embroidered artworks, painted pianos, and embellished calabashes and drums. Motifs of lace, flowers (British daffodils and Nigerian yellow trumpet flowers), and drums recur throughout, with a lace tapestry bearing the exhibition's subtitle. Two soundscapes by Peter Adjaye and James William Blades accompany the works, and buyers receive a signed vinyl.
The exhibition matters because it marks a significant milestone for Ilori, who is known for his prolific output but has never before had a solo gallery show—distinct from his 2022 Design Museum presentation. It also signals a deeply personal turn in his practice, using art to process personal loss while celebrating his mother's resilience and the immigrant community in North London. Additionally, Ilori announced a foundation inspired by his mother to design accessible play spaces in Nigeria, extending his impact beyond the gallery into social infrastructure.