In Celebration of Professor Bruce Onobrakpeya
Published 30 August 2024 in The Legacy
Uche Okeke Legacy Editorial
On the 30th of August, we joyfully celebrated the 92nd birthday of our dear family friend, Professor Bruce Onobrakpeya. One of Nigeria’s most esteemed visual artists, he has had a great impact on the identity of our country with his dedication to reviving our cultural heritage and art, and has deeply touched our family through his close friendship with Uche Okeke.
Bruce Onobrakpeya and Uche Okeke were kindred spirits that sought to carve out a distinctly Nigerian voice, drawing from our many cultural traditions with the vision of a unified identity for our country. They, alongside their contemporaries at the Zaria Art Society and other institutions, helped lay the foundation that shaped Nigerian Modernism, but their relationship went far beyond their shared artistic vision. As with his contemporaries, he has always been far more than an artist - he is a philosopher, and shared a strong connection with Uche Okeke that was built on mutual ideologies and a shared desire for holistic change in the world. Their friendship was one of mutual respect and shared purpose. They uplifted each other in their creative journeys, spending much time discussing the future of art in Nigeria and the world, and what it meant to be rooted in African identity, and their bond steeped in a shared love of all facets of life and a deep understanding of the transformative power of creation is something we continue to cherish.
From left: Thembi Uche-Okeke, Professor Bruce Onobrakpeya, and CEO, Salma Uche-Okek
Professor Onobrakpeya's contributions to the art world are nothing short of monumental. Known for his mastery of printmaking techniques, his works redefined the possibilities of contemporary Nigerian art. Every one of his pieces is imbued with a deep respect for Nigeria's artistic traditions, and his pioneering spirit pushed the boundaries of printmaking with methods such as his plastograph technique, which made printmaking more accessible in Nigeria. His works are featured in prominent collections across the world, including the Vatican Museum in Rome, the Smithsonian Institution in Washington D.C., the British Museum in London, and the National Gallery of Modern Art in Lagos. But beyond his technical brilliance, Bruce has always been driven by a commitment to preserve and elevate African cultural heritage. His artworks carry with them the stories, symbols, and philosophies that are at the heart of who we are as a people, and in this way, he is not just an artist but a custodian of our collective memory and identity.
Today, at 92, Bruce Onobrakpeya remains as vital to the art world as ever. His Harmattan Workshop, held annually in Agbarha-Otor, has become a beacon for the next generation of artists, offering them a space to hone their craft and explore their creative potential. The workshop has nurtured countless young talents, many who see Bruce not just as a mentor but as a symbol of artistic integrity and excellence.
Bruce Onobrakpeya, Igurube Erha, plastograph, 1970
As a family, we have witnessed the profound impact of his work and his unwavering commitment to empowering others. His contributions to art are immeasurable, but it is perhaps his dedication to fostering creativity in others that will be his most lasting legacy. The relationship between our family and Professor Onobrakpeya is one we hold close to our hearts, and his friendship with our father was, and continues to be, a source of pride and gratitude for us. As we reflect on his incredible achievements and celebrate his life today, we are reminded of the many ways in which he has touched our lives, not just as a renowned artist, but as a friend, mentor, and confidant.
Happy 92nd birthday, Professor Onobrakpeya. Your life and work remain a constant source of inspiration to us all!