Insight into 'Nigerian Modernism'

 

I loved the Nigerian Modernism exhibition at Tate Modern.

Of course, Tate Modern is probably one of my favourite exhbition space in the whole world... But also, after seeing in Paris hundreds of African artworks - long forgotten or purly ignored - crammed into one apologetic exhibition earlier this year, here is a fantastic example of care and precision in curating, truly showcasing Nigerian talents and how they were slowly displayed in the UK and the world over the years. My visual insight (more words soon):

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Set against the backdrop of cultural and artistic rebellion, Nigerian Modernism celebrates the achievements of Nigerian artists working before and after the decade of national independence from British colonial rule in 1960. 

It shows works from 50 artists including Uzo Egonu, El Anatsui, Ladi Kwali and Ben Enwonwu MBE.

The exhibition tells the story of artistic networks which spanned Zaria, Ibadan, Lagos and Enugu, as well as London, Munich and Paris. 

Through groups like the Zaria Art Society and Mbari Artists' and Writers' Club, they fused Nigerian, African and European techniques and traditions to create vibrant, multidimensional works.