Bartering- A Painting for a Camera

I am writing a book, and want better quality images. After a photo session with a friend, I knew I needed the camera- the amazing Fujifilm GFX 100 II. I am willing to give one of these paintings in exchange, for a limited time.

The Woman Who Wanted Everything, 59 x 38 inches, acrylic on canvas, 05/2023

Green Space, 48 x 48inches, oil on canvas, 2025

Naomi, Orpah, and Ruth (Citizens of Nowhere) oil and spray paint on canvas, nine 20 x 16-inch, 2022

Trade by barter has been on my mind since I studied the lives of artists. In exchange for their artworks, they were given what they needed at the moment- be it money, food, art materials, a home, etc. The best gift you can get from me is my artwork, because it has the possibility of growing in value.

Working as an artist for 28 years, I know that my artwork has been my currency in many ways.

I will highlight 2 moments when I exchanged my paintings for things.

Jeff (the owner of Thought Pyramid Art gallery, Nigeria) is a dear friend. In 2017, he imported 2 yellow Ford Mustang cars from the US. He would keep one and wanted to sell the other. He also wanted my paintings for his home. I gave him 2 paintings for one of the Ford Mustangs. We both got what we wanted. It felt like the way of thinking about money, about bitcoin.

Another instance of an exchange happened a month ago. I went shopping on Facebook Marketplace for a foldable bike to replace my old one. I saw a nice Schwinn bike and contacted the owner. We agreed to meet so I can pay and pick it up. The seller discovered on Facebook that I am an artist, liked my works, and asked if we could exchange for an artwork instead. I was delighted, as my paintings are my best treasures. Cash comes and goes. When we did the exchange, it felt like I had come full circle- the visibility and prestige I enjoyed in Nigeria many years ago are being replicated here in the US.

Now I must write the book. There are enough stories and colorful artworks for a beautiful coffee table book. Who is willing to make the exchange? Of course, I will also accept cash to purchase the camera. So, dear collector, can you make it happen? I will also trade other paintings for the lenses for this camera. You can contact me here with an exchange in mind.

Who will become part of my story by owning my painting? Who will make this happen?

NB: The painting below is no longer available- an exchange for something else! I have updated and added another painting to be exchanged for the Fujifilm camera. There is positive feedback with people responding to this primal way of sharing things. People are embracing it.

Wandering in the rainforests of yesterday, 56 x 36 inches, oil on canvas, 2025