Discover the vibrant world of contemporary Nigerian artists with this comprehensive list. From painters to sculptors, this guide showcases the talent and creativity of Nigerian artists today.
Nigeria, a country rich in culture and talent, is home to a vibrant and diverse art scene. From traditional forms to contemporary expressions, Nigerian artists have made significant contributions to the global art world.
In this post, we will explore the works of some of the most renowned contemporary Nigerian artists who have captivated audiences with their creativity and vision.
Contemporary Nigerian Artists
Get to know the names and works of contemporary Nigerian artists with this curated list. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or a collector, this guide is a must-read for anyone interested in Nigerian art.
Peju Alatise
Peju Alatise is an artist known for her thought-provoking installations and sculptures. Her works often explore themes of identity, feminism, and social issues.
Bruce Onobrakpeya
Bruce Onobrakpeya, on the other hand, is a legendary figure in Nigerian art, known for his mastery of printmaking. His works reflect his deep connection to his Yoruba heritage and his commitment to preserving traditional art forms.
Yusuf Grillo
Yusuf Grillo, who sadly passed away in 2021, was a pioneer of the modern art movement in Nigeria. His paintings are characterized by their vibrant colours and bold brushstrokes, depicting scenes of everyday life in Nigeria.
Nnenna Okore
Nnenna Okore is another artist who draws inspiration from her Nigerian roots. She uses unconventional materials like burlap and jute to create intricate and textured sculptures.
Marcia Kure
Marcia Kure’s works explore themes of gender, identity, and power. Her mixed-media pieces often combine traditional African motifs with contemporary imagery.
Nike Davies-Okundaye
Nike Davies-Okundaye is a prominent textile artist and educator, known for her mastery of traditional Nigerian textile techniques. Her vibrant and colourful fabrics have been exhibited around the world.
Victor Ehikhamenor
Victor Ehikhamenor is a multidisciplinary artist whose works span painting, sculpture, and installation. His works challenge societal norms and explore themes of politics, religion, and globalization.
Akinola Lasekan
Akinola Lasekan, one of the pioneering Nigerian photographers, documented the lives and traditions of the Yoruba people in the mid-20th century, leaving behind a rich visual record.
Ade Adekola
Ade Adekola’s paintings often depict scenes of everyday life in Nigeria, capturing the essence of the country’s vibrant culture.
Ugochukwu-Smooth Nzewi
Ugochukwu-Smooth Nzewi is a curator and scholar who has played a significant role in promoting contemporary African art on the global stage. His expertise in African art history has been invaluable to the field.
Sejiro Avoseh
Sejiro Avoseh’s works explore themes of migration, identity, and displacement. His mixed-media pieces often incorporate found objects and materials, creating visually striking compositions.
Onyeka Ibe
Onyeka Ibe is a talented painter known for his colourful and expressive portraits, often depicting scenes from Nigerian life.
Mary Evans
Mary Evans is a multimedia artist whose works address issues of race, gender, and identity. She uses a variety of mediums, including photography, video, and performance, to tell powerful stories.
Temitayo Ogunbiyi
Temitayo Ogunbiyi is a conceptual artist whose works challenge societal norms and explore themes of power and oppression.
Ekene Emeka Maduka
Ekene Emeka Maduka is a contemporary painter known for his bold and vibrant canvases. His works often depict scenes from everyday life in Nigeria, capturing the energy and spirit of the country.
Ruby Onyinyechi Amanze
Ruby Onyinyechi Amanze is a mixed-media artist whose works explore themes of migration, memory, and identity. Her intricate drawings and installations have been exhibited internationally.
Emeka Ogboh
Emeka Ogboh is an artist known for his sound installations, which explore the relationship between sound, space, and culture. His works often incorporate traditional Nigerian music and sounds, creating immersive and sensory experiences.
Demas Nwoko
Demas Nwoko, a renowned architect and artist, is known for his contributions to modern Nigerian architecture and his innovative sculptures.
Modupeola Fadugba
Modupeola Fadugba’s paintings explore themes of feminism, identity, and social issues. Her vibrant and expressive works challenge societal norms and provoke thought.
Nengi Omuku
Nengi Omuku’s sculptures often incorporate found objects and materials, creating visually striking and thought-provoking compositions.
Folakunle Oshun
Folakunle Oshun is an artist and curator known for his innovative and socially engaged art projects. His works often explore themes of urbanization, migration, and identity.
Kelechi Nwaneri
Kelechi Nwaneri is a contemporary painter known for his abstract and experimental works, often combining traditional and digital techniques.
Olu Amoda
Olu Amoda is a master of traditional Nigerian woodcarving, creating intricate and detailed sculptures that reflect the country’s rich cultural heritage.
Yinka Shonibare
Yinka Shonibare is an internationally acclaimed artist known for his use of African textiles and his exploration of themes of colonialism and post-colonialism.
Gerald Chukwuma
Gerald Chukwuma’s sculptures and mixed-media works often address social and political issues in Nigeria. His bold and visually striking pieces have gained international recognition.
Ayobola Kekere-Ekun
Ayobola Kekere-Ekun is a multidisciplinary artist whose works explore themes of memory, identity, and history.
Dipo Doherty
Dipo Doherty is a contemporary photographer known for his powerful and emotive portraits. His works often capture the beauty and resilience of the Nigerian people.
Ken Nwadiogbu
Ken Nwadiogbu is a hyperrealism artist whose intricate charcoal drawings depict scenes of Nigerian life with remarkable detail and precision.
Babajide Olatunji
Babajide Olatunji is a painter known for his vibrant and expressive canvases. His works often explore themes of spirituality, mythology, and cultural heritage.
El Anatsui
El Anatsui, one of Nigeria’s most celebrated artists, is known for his monumental sculptures made from discarded materials like bottle caps and aluminium strips.
Sokari Douglas Camp
Sokari Douglas Camp is a sculptor known for her large-scale installations, often inspired by Nigerian folklore and traditions. Her works have been exhibited in major museums around the world.
Yadichinma Ukoha-Kalu
Yadichinma Ukoha-Kalu is a mixed-media artist whose works explore themes of identity, memory, and belonging.
Abayomi Barber
Abayomi Barber, who sadly passed away in 2021, was a renowned artist known for his vibrant and colourful paintings. His works often depict scenes from Nigerian life, capturing the energy and vibrancy of the country.
Krydz Ikwuemesi
Krydz Ikwuemesi is a contemporary artist known for his abstract and experimental works, often incorporating traditional Nigerian symbols and motifs.
Samson Bakare
Samson Bakare is a painter known for his realistic and detailed portraits. His works often capture the emotions and stories of the people he depicts.
These are just a few of the many talented contemporary Nigerian artists who continue to push boundaries and redefine the art scene in Nigeria and beyond.
Article updated 2 weeks ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
