A Brief History of Nigerian Modernism

Published 17 April 2024 in The Legacy

Uche Okeke Legacy Editorial

Nigerian Modernism represents a critical movement in the evolution of African art, intertwining traditional Nigerian aesthetics with contemporary techniques and themes. Central to this movement is Uche Okeke, whose innovative approaches and dedication to cultural heritage have cemented his place in art history, and the institutions that nurtured and promoted this movement, such as the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and the Zaria Art Society. This blog explores the origins, key figures, characteristics, and lasting impact of Nigerian Modernism.

Uche Okeke, Igeri, Lino Print on Paper

Historical Context

Before colonial rule, art in Nigeria was largely functional, serving religious, social, and political purposes. For centuries, the Igbo Uli body and wall painting marked important passages of life, such as birth and death, the bronze and brass sculptures and plaques from the Kingdom of Benin depicted a king's military achievements, court rituals, and other significant achievements, and the Yoruba observed deeply intertwined religious rituals and celebrations such as the Eyo Festival, held in honour of an Oba, elder, or person of significance, with dancers dressing up as the Eyo, or masquerades, who were believed to represent the spirit of the ancestors. These functional art forms have been observed in Nigeria for over a thousand years, with some traditions, such as the Benin Bronzes, dating back to at least the 13th century, and the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba and Igbo extending even further back in time.

The colonial era brought significant changes to Nigerian art through the introduction of Western artistic techniques and perspectives. Formal art education was established with the founding of art schools and departments, such as the Nigerian College of Arts, Science and Technology in Zaria (NCAST - now Ahmadu Bello University), and drawing, painting, and other commonly practised Western techniques were incorporated. Nigerian artists were exposed to European art movements such as Impressionism and Cubism, and while this opened their eyes to the immense world of possibilities, traditional art forms were often suppressed or deemed inferior by colonial authorities, leading to a decline in practices like Uliism and traditional sculptural methods. This period of cultural exchange and suppression set the stage for the emergence of Nigerian Modernism in the mid-20th century, when artists would begin to merge Nigerian traditions with Western contemporary practices, not only as a rebellion against colonial rule and practices but in celebration of their deeply ingrained roots.