Mrs. Anthonia "Sola" (Macjob) Akinbola

Anthonia "Sola" Akinbola, née Macjob, was born on January 26, 1959 in Abeokuta, Nigeria, with ancestral origins in Esure, Ijebu, Ogun State. It is with deep sorrow that we announce her passing on June 13th in Queens, New York, at the age of 64.

Sola's remarkable life was filled with creativity, a dedication to the arts and education, and a profound commitment to her faith.

As a young woman, Sola pursued her passion for the arts, excelling as a visual and textile artist and educator. Her talents led her to contribute to notable programs such as Busy Hands, a television program that inspired elementary school children, and Feminine Scope, which empowered women to unleash their creativity using household objects. She also played a pivotal role as the only female member of the Olumo Art Movement, a group of artists dedicated to revitalizing the Olumo Rock mountain in Abeokuta through their paintings and sculptures. An alumnus of Yaba Tech in Lagos, she earned her Higher National Diploma in Art Education and Textile Design.

In 1986, Sola embarked on a new chapter of her life in Columbia, Missouri. She pursued her Bachelor of Education in Art Education at the University of Missouri, Columbia, and it was during this time that she met and married her beloved husband, Patrick Akinbola. Together, they established Batik Arts, a cherished store that became a cultural hub in downtown Columbia for 15 years. The store, which briefly transformed into a cafe, welcomed people from all walks of life with whom Sola effortlessly forged meaningful friendships. In 1988, Sola experienced the joys of motherhood with the birth of her first child, Bimbola, followed by the arrival of her son, Bunmi, three years later. Throughout their time in Columbia, the Akinbolas were passionate contributors to the community, actively participating in art exhibitions, festivals, and cultural events. Their creative endeavors were often celebrated in articles and local news features. Additionally, Sola and Patrick were dedicated members of the Egbe Omo Oduduwa of Mid-Missouri, a Nigerian cultural organization that promoted their rich heritage.

In 2012, Sola and her family relocated to New York, where she continued to immerse herself in the arts. Her passion for teaching art flourished during the later years of her life as she dedicated herself to leading art workshops and teaching arts and crafts at various senior centers across New York City. Her unwavering commitment earned her grants from the New York City Council and the Queens Council on the Arts, allowing her to share her expertise and bring joy to countless students who held her dear to their hearts. Among her clients were the LaGuardia Community College, Brooklyn Textile Center, and the South-East Queens Parks Association. She was a SU-CASA Artist-in-Residence through the Queens Council on the Arts at the Theodore Jackson Adult Center, the Holliswood Senior Center, and Rochdale Senior Center. She was also a recipient of a New Art Grant, and an awardee of The New York City Artist Corps in 2021.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Sola found solace and inspiration within her church community and occasionally delivered sermons, which she deeply cherished. She was an ardent member of CAC House of Deliverance and Blessings in Far Rockaway and World Outreach Restoration Ministries in Jamaica. Sola's faith was a guiding force throughout her life, providing her with strength and resilience.

Sola will be dearly missed by her family, friends, and the countless lives she touched with her talent, kindness, and unwavering dedication. Her legacy as an artist, educator, and advocate for cultural preservation will continue to inspire generations to come. May her soul find eternal peace, and may her memory be a blessing to all who knew her.