Friends showcase ‘Timi’ Okedina’s art

By Halyley Montalvo

Friends of Oluwarotimi “Timi” Okedina filtered in and out of the Stevenson Smart Classroom to take in the artistic talent of the sophomore geology major Wednesday.

The art show was held in honor of Okedina, who fell from the 11th floor of a tower at Stevenson Hall on Sept. 26. He later died from injuries at Kishwaukee Hospital.

The showcase was put together by Max Ehret, Okedina’s former community advisor, and close friend Jessica McKay. The three formed a close friendship in the small geology program.

The collection was mostly submitted by friends whom Okedina had given artwork to. Most of his work was created for friends simply because they had asked for it, said McKay and Ehret.

“I want Timi to be remembered as a very talented person with a huge heart,” McKay said.

The collection varied in medium. Some of the works were sketches, while others were larger acrylic paintings. A marker sketch of George Washington crossing the Delaware River was pinned to the wall next to a color painting of Michael Jackson.

Sophomore acting major Leah Harvey said Okedina and friends would have a “paint night” whenever he had extra canvases.

“I think people should celebrate what an amazing life he had and what an amazing influence he had on people around him,” Harvey said.

Along with Okedina’s paintings and drawings, some of his spoken word poetry was played. His poetry can be can heard on his SoundCloud account, timi_okedina.

Notes filled the back wall of the room, and organizers encouraged attendees to sign a poster at the event. Okedina’s friends formed circles around the room sharing their favorite memories with him.

“We wanted to create a way to remember Timi in a way that would celebrate him and provide happy memories,” McKay said.

An attempt is being made to move the collection to a case in the Holmes Student Center by another student, Ehret said.