The Zaria Art Society and their Rebellion
Published 16 May 2024 in The Legacy
Uche Okeke Legacy Editorial
The Zaria Art Society, often referred to as the "Zaria Rebels," is a seminal group in the history of modern Nigerian art. Founded in the 1950s at the Nigerian College of Arts, Science, and Technology (NCAST - now Ahmadu Bello University) in Zaria, this group of young artists set the foundation for contemporary Nigerian art as we know it.
Their vision, radical ideas, and innovative practices revolutionized the Nigerian art scene and significantly altered the cultural landscape of post-colonial Africa.
Nigeria's Fight for Independence
Nigeria was on the brink of a monumental transformation in the 1950s. The country was fighting for independence from British colonial rule - a period of intense cultural, political, and social awakening - and wanted to establish a unified society that honoured its deep-rooted heritage rich in ethnic groups, languages, and traditions. The movement for independence, led by prominent figures such as Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, and Ahmadu Bello, championed the cause of self-governance, the end of colonial rule and the reclamation of Nigerian identity.
Western systems and cultural norms were imposed on Nigeria under colonial rule, stifling indigenous traditions and knowledge systems. It affected various aspects of life, including the arts, as the colonial education system largely neglected Nigerian cultural heritage and focused instead on European art forms and techniques. This created a rift between traditional practices and contemporary expression, which many felt needed to be bridged to form the unified national identity they were striving for. This was the backdrop for the establishment of Nigerian College of Arts, Science, and Technology, Zaria, one of the few institutions in Nigeria that offered higher education to Nigerians at a time.
The college quickly became a melting pot for intellectual and artistic exchange, attracting eager students from diverse backgrounds as a result, and aimed to provide a comprehensive education that included the arts, sciences, and technology. The art department in particular became a focal point for those who wanted to explore Nigerian cultural identity and expression through visual arts, and while the curriculum initially adhered to Western standards and European art education, the broader societal rebirth influenced the students to start question the approach. It was in this dynamic environment that the Zaria Art Society was born. Founded in 1958 by a group of forward-thinking art students who were dissatisfied with the colonial art curriculum, the Zaria Art Society embarked on a mission to synthesize traditional African art forms with contemporary techniques, a philosophy they termed ‘Natural Synthesis’. This approach sought to incorporate traditional themes, techniques and ideologies into their work, creating an art form that was authentically reflective of their own experiences and heritage.
The focus of the Zaria Art Society and the Natural Synthesis movement was not only on the work itself, but on the philosophy, history and knowledge that could be found in the unified technique. They held regular meetings and discussions, sharing ideas, critiquing each other’s works, and studying the richness of their combined roots, and the intricate patterns of Yoruba textiles, symbolic motifs of Uliism, sophisticated sculptures of the Nok, Benin, and Ife cultures and other traditional African art forms were all elements that became a rich source of inspiration, informing their modern creations.
The Founding Members
The founding members of the Zaria Art Society were united by their desire to create a unique Nigerian artistic identity that would reflect the country's rich cultural heritage and contemporary realities. They worked as a unified entity, uplifting, teaching and learning from the other, with no member considering themselves above the other.
The Zaria Art Society founding members
Uche Okeke: The father of this great legacy! Known for his exploration of Igbo cultural themes and symbols, Okeke played a crucial role in the society’s formation. Although he himself regarded everyone in equal standing, he is considered to be the founding father by other members.
Bruce Onobrakpeya: Celebrated particularly for his pioneering work in printmaking, Bruce Onobrakpeya’s works often depict themes from Urhobo folklore, reflecting his deep connection to his cultural heritage and his innovative artistic vision. Onobrakpeya continues to contribute to the development of modern Nigerian art, and has recently held his 26th Harmattan Workshop!
Demas Nwoko: The visionary architect. His architectural projects include the Dominican Institute in Ibadan and the Akenzua Cultural Centre in Benin City, and are prime examples of his synthesis of traditional African architecture with modernist principles.
Yusuf Grillo: Yusuf Grillo is one of Nigeria’s most acclaimed artists. His works are renowned for their vibrant colours and geometric patterns, which reflect deep Yoruba cultural influences and are testament to his ability to embody the principles of Natural Synthesis.
Simon Okeke: Recognized for his keen eye for detail and exceptional skill in creating realistic portraits and captivating landscape, Simon Okeke’s appreciation for the beauty of the natural world earned him admiration and acclaim both locally and internationally.
Solomon Irein Wangboje: Solomon Irein Wangboje's focus was on both preservation of indigenous traditions and innovation, especially in printmaking. Wangboje was instrumental in establishing formal art education programs in Nigeria, which led to the founding of the Ori Olokun Art Workshop in Ife, which became a key centre for nurturing young Nigerian artists.
Major Contributions
The Zaria Art Society’s efforts were not confined to the college and they actively participated in events both within Nigeria and internationally, showcasing their innovative works and releasing articles that challenged the dominance of Western art styles. Revolutionary exhibitions such as the 1959 First National Art Exhibition, Lagos, featuring works by Zaria Art Society members and organized shortly after Nigeria's independence, attracted masses of attention and sparked discussions about the role of art in post-colonial Nigeria, and their significant publications spread the Natural Synthesis ideology to masses of like-minded individuals - all of which continue to this day.
Uche Okeke Legacy Archival Material - East Central State Arts Council Invitation
Below we have listed some notable examples that are well worth mentioning:
Notable works
Uche Okeke’s Drawings and Paintings - Okeke’s series of pen and ink drawings, "The Story of Anyanwu," is a prime example of his exploration of Igbo mythology.
Demas Nwoko’s Architectural Projects - Nwoko’s designs for the Dominican Institute in Ibadan and the Akenzua Cultural Center in Benin City exemplify his synthesis of traditional African architecture with modernist principles.
Yusuf Grillo’s Paintings - Grillo’s vibrant paintings, such as "Mother of Twins" and "Eyo Masquerade," showcase his mastery of color and form, drawing from Yoruba cultural motifs.
Bruce Onobrakpeya’s Prints - Onobrakpeya’s innovative printmaking techniques can be seen in works like "The Spirit of Ogun" and "Sahelian Masquerades," which incorporate elements of Urhobo folklore.
Notable Exhibitions
1959 Nigerian College of Arts, Science, and Technology Exhibition, Zaria
Date: 1959
Location: Nigerian College of Arts, Science, and Technology, Zaria
Description: This was one of the first major exhibitions by the Zaria Art Society, showcasing the works of its founding members. The exhibition highlighted their revolutionary approach to art, combining traditional African elements with modern techniques.
Uli and Natural Synthesis
Date: Early 1960s
Location: Mbari Club, Ibadan, Nigeria
Description: This exhibition was focused on the concept of "Natural Synthesis" and the integration of traditional Uli designs into contemporary art. It underscored the society's influence on the broader Nigerian art community.
Commonwealth Art Exhibition
Date: 1962
Location: London, United Kingdom
Description: Members of the Zaria Art Society participated in this prestigious international exhibition, presenting Nigerian art on a global stage and gaining international recognition for their innovative works.
Contemporary African Arts, FESTAC '77
Date: 1977
Location: Lagos, Nigeria
Description: FESTAC '77 (the Second World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture) was a major cultural event. The Zaria Art Society members were prominently featured, celebrating African arts and culture alongside artists from across the continent and the diaspora.
Nigerian Art in the Twentieth Century
Date: 1989
Location: National Museum, Lagos, Nigeria
Description: This exhibition, which looked back at the development of Nigerian art throughout the 20th century, prominently featured works by the Zaria Art Society, highlighting their pivotal role in shaping modern Nigerian art.
Uche Okeke Legacy Archival Material - FESTAC '77
Notable Publications
Art in Development
Author: Uche Okeke
Publication Date: 1982
Description: In this seminal work, Uche Okeke delves into the evolution of Nigerian art., discussing the principles of Natural Synthesis and how the society's philosophy has shaped contemporary Nigerian art practices and education.
Nsukka Harvest: Art from the University of Nigeria
Editors: Uche Okeke, Chike Aniakor, and Ola Oloidi
Publication Date: 1986
Description: This publication compiles works and essays from artists and scholars associated with the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, where many Zaria Art Society members, including Uche Okeke, had significant influence. It highlights the impact of their philosophies on Nigerian art education.
The Growth of a National Art: Art and Artists of Nigeria
Author: Yusuf Grillo
Publication Date: 1973
Description: Yusuf Grillo, a leading figure in the Zaria Art Society, provides an in-depth look at the development of Nigerian art, emphasizing the society's contributions and the evolution of a national artistic identity.
Modern Nigerian Art: A Collection of Works by Members of the Zaria Art Society
Editor: Simon Okeke
Publication Date: 1971
Description: This collection features a range of works from the Zaria Art Society members, showcasing their individual styles and collective philosophy. It includes essays on their techniques and thematic explorations.
The Story of a Nigerian Art Movement: The Zaria Art Society
Editor: Chike Aniakor
Publication Date: 1990
Description: This comprehensive book documents the history, philosophy, and legacy of the Zaria Art Society. It includes contributions from various members and art historians, providing a thorough overview of their influence on Nigerian art.
Art in Development - Nigerian Perspective by Uche Okeke
The Legacy Continues
The legacy of the Zaria Art Society extends well beyond their own works - they laid the groundwork for the development of contemporary Nigerian art, influencing numerous artists and movements that followed, and remains a beacon of creativity and innovation in the history of Nigerian art. Their contributions to Nigerian and African art are vast and varied, and their emphasis on cultural identity, innovation, and education continues to resonate with artists today through the efforts and affects of spaces like The Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art, and Bruce Onobrakpeya's Harmattan Workshop.
Their revolutionary efforts not only redefined the artistic landscape of Nigeria but played a crucial role in shaping the cultural identity of Africa, ensuring their impact will ripple for generations to come.