Nestled on the outskirts of Ikiṣẹ village near Ijebu Ode in Ogun State, Nigeria, the G.A.S. Farm House stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of art, architecture, and social action. Established by renowned British-Nigerian artist Yinka Shonibare CBE RA, this innovative residency space offers artists, designers, agronomists, and researchers a unique environment to explore and develop their practices. Shonibare’s work often delves into themes of colonialism, identity, and globalization. With the G.A.S. Farm House, he extends his artistic narrative into a tangible space that fosters cultural exchange and sustainable practices. The facility is situated within the 54-acre Ecology Green Farm, which produces a variety of crops, including cassava, peppers, tomatoes, maize, pawpaw, and ginger. This integration of agriculture and art reflects Shonibare’s commitment to addressing food security and environmental sustainability through creative endeavors.
Designed by Nigerian architect Papa Omotayo of MOE+ Art Architecture, with interior concepts by Temitayo Shonibare, the G.A.S. Farm House embodies sustainability and local craftsmanship. Approximately 40,000 bricks used in its construction were made from earth excavated during the foundation laying, and bamboo scaffolding was repurposed into screens that envelop the building. High ceilings facilitate natural air circulation, and solar panels provide renewable energy, ensuring an eco-friendly operation. The residence offers a serene setting for interdisciplinary research and practice development in fields such as agronomy, agroecology, food sustainability, architecture, and environmental studies. The local area’s rich history of traditional crafts, particularly ceramics and textiles, provides additional inspiration for creative practitioners focused on materiality. In 2025, G.A.S. commissioned the building of a small wood-fired kiln to support those working with clay, further enhancing the resources available to residents.
Beyond serving as a creative retreat, the G.A.S. Farm House plays a pivotal role in community engagement and development. By integrating art with sustainable agriculture, it addresses critical issues such as food security and environmental conservation. The residency programs encourage meaningful exchanges between international artists and local communities, promoting mutual understanding and collaboration. The G.A.S. Farm House exemplifies how art, architecture, and social action can intertwine to create spaces that inspire creativity, foster sustainability, and drive community development. Yinka Shonibare’s vision, realized through thoughtful design and purposeful integration with the environment, offers a model for future initiatives aiming to make a positive impact through interdisciplinary collaboration.