With the theme in mind, were carefully selected these artists for a group exhibition at Nomadic art gallery in patnership with artdigging.com
Ekene Ngige
Ekene Ngige Known as “The Coffee Artist” is from Anambra state but based in Lagos. He is specialized in creating masterpieces with Coffee, A graduate of Fine Art from the prestigious School of Art and Design, Yaba College of Technology, Lagos. He was of a member of the final class of Professor Kolade Oshinowo.
He discovered Coffee painting in 2015 after a coffee spill on his notepad inspired him to create artworks with the beverage, Ever since then Ekene has been globally known for his Unique coffee pieces.
From highlighting the plight of impoverished children, to depicting vivid drawings of female empowerment as well as putting a spotlight on the series of violent attacks taking place across Nigeria, Ngige sees his art as more than just paintings to be enjoyed but rather a way of telling important African stories and creating awareness as a form of activism promoting peace and unity in Nigeria.
Ngige’s previous exhibitions include: Coffee meets art 2014, It’s all about eve 2016, Coffee festival 2019 Felabration 2019, Impart art fair 2019, Different strokes 2019 and The dove series 2021.
Tochukwu Orazulike
Tochukwu Orazulike (b. 1966) employs contemporary elements to create surreal images that engage the senses and serves as a vehicle for raising awareness about societal issues. His works represent a juxtaposition of bliss and struggle, and thought-provoking imagery that evokes deep emotions. His proficiency shines through in his masterful use of waves of spray paints, expertly marbled onto canvas, harmoniously merging with oil and acrylics.
Tochukwu has garnered recognition through his participation in prominent group exhibitions, including ‘Undiscovered’ at Thought Pyramid Lagos 2023. Additionally, he participated in the successful ‘SOGAL African Original Contemporary & Modern Art Auction 2023’ at the Signature Beyond Art Gallery. He has also been featured in notable residencies such as the ‘1952 Africa Art Residency in Lagos’ 2023 and ‘Voice NFTs Residency 2’ in 2022.
The waves of spray paint, resembling the marbled patterns seamlessly blend with the background using oil and acrylic paints represents the relationship between man and natural resources. I invite viewers to visually explore and contemplate the intricate nature of contemporary global challenges and experience.
Ife Ofolue
Ofulue Ife. E. Ehianu (b. 1995) is a versatile visual artist whose multidisciplinary practice spans diverse mediums. Hailing originally from Kaduna, Nigeria, his artistic endeavors serve as a poignant tribute to his homeland, encapsulating its essence and celebrating its rich tapestry of everyday life experiences and people.
Ife.E. Ehianu holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Architecture, complemented by a wealth of expertise and experience in fields ranging from Building Construction to Photography, Visual Digital Marketing, and Creative Directing/Art Directing. His creative journey has been punctuated by notable exhibitions, including prominent showcases such as the “Emergence of Art” at Studio One Art Gallery in Cape Town, South Africa, and recurring participation in the esteemed Lagos Photo Festival from 2018 to 2019.
Furthermore, his work has graced spaces such as The Dada Gallery and Alliance Française, as part of exhibitions like “Nigerian Pop Culture” and the Emerging Photographers Exhibit, respectively, in addition to contributions to ART X Lagos and the Affinity Gallery’s “Ruwa Ya Zo” documentary project in 2022, where he showcased his prowess in Creative Direction. He also In 2023 participated in SEI X ART Auction in London promoting african and south asian art internationally.
Olalekan Adeyemi
Olalekan Adeyemi, born in 1988 in Osun State, Nigeria, is a prominent painter renowned for his visually engaging and photo-surrealistic artworks. With a deep-rooted connection to Nigeria’s socio-cultural landscape, Olalekan infuses his artworks with poignant narratives and intricate symbolism.
In his artistic practice, Olalekan explores the concept of life as a continuous process of shedding layers, akin to the peeling-off of skin. Through his artworks, he delves into the complexities of human existence, capturing fleeting moments in time and leaving behind traces of the human experience.
Driven by a relentless pursuit of aesthetic excellence, Olalekan employs a dynamic rendition style that captivates viewers, compelling them to engage with his artworks repeatedly. His paintings serve as windows into a world where reality and imagination intertwine, inviting viewers to explore hidden depths with each encounter.
In this exhibition, Olalekan ……..
Josh Egesi
Josh Egesi is a dynamic design artist renowned for his innovative approach to bridging the gap between African culture and contemporary expressions. With a diverse creative journey that has evolved from curating to painting, graphic design, and beyond, Josh’s work embodies a fusion of tradition and modernity, aimed at preserving and evolving African cultural narratives.
His artistic practice transcends boundaries, encompassing a vast array of mediums and techniques. Whether working on canvas, digital platforms, or installations, Josh’s commitment to preserving and celebrating African heritage shines through in every project. From vibrant paintings that depict stories of African folklore to cutting-edge graphic designs that reimagine traditional motifs in a contemporary context, Josh’s creations are a testament to his passion for cultural preservation and innovation.
At the core of Josh’s artistic philosophy is the belief in creating memorable experiences for people through his creations. Whether designing furniture, lighting pieces, or innovative instruments like the electric talking drum, Josh seeks to evoke emotions, provoke thoughts, and spark conversations through his work. Each design is meticulously crafted to not only be visually striking but also to resonate with the audience on a deeper level, leaving a lasting impression that extends beyond aesthetics.
In addition to his artistic pursuits, Josh has become a prominent name in the industrial design space, known for designing stellar furniture and lighting pieces that seamlessly blend functionality with aesthetic appeal. His innovative designs draw inspiration from African heritage while embracing modern materials and techniques, earning him acclaim from both critics and consumers alike.
One of Josh’s most notable recent achievements is the design of an electric talking drum, a groundbreaking fusion of traditional African percussion with cutting-edge technology. This innovative instrument not only pays homage to the rich musical heritage of Africa but also showcases Josh’s ability to push the boundaries of design and innovation.
Josh’s influence extends far beyond the confines of his studio. His work has garnered international recognition, with features in prestigious publications such as DW, BBC, and Interior Design Magazine. His projects have been showcased at renowned events and institutions including Design Week Lagos, Goethe Institute’s “Drumming New Worlds,” and Salone del Mobile, further solidifying his position as a trailblazer in the global design community.
In addition to his artistic achievements, Josh is deeply committed to fostering creativity and cultural exchange. He regularly collaborates with local artisans and designers, bridging traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design practices. Through workshops, mentorship programs, and community outreach initiatives, Josh actively promotes cross-cultural dialogue and empowers emerging artists to explore their creative potential.
Beyond his artistic achievements, Josh is also an avid advocate for social change. He uses his platform to address pressing issues facing African communities, leveraging art as a powerful tool for advocacy and awareness.
With his visionary approach to design and unwavering dedication to cultural preservation, Josh Egesi continues to push the boundaries of artistic expression, leaving an indelible mark on the global design landscape.
