Painting Nigerian Culture with Chinedu Ogakwu

Southeastern Nigerian artist Chinedu Ogakwu's work explores the dynamics of both his cultural heritage and his life as an African and international artist. He is known for his peculiar raised textures and mixed media renditions. His work often engages impulsive combinations of forms, color, scale, and perspective, calling into question how the viewer processes visual information.

The Farm series: taking inspiration from his childhood
While growing up, farming was an important occupation for families in Chinedu Ogakwu's home town. Many of his artworks are reflections of his childhood. This painting is part of a series about traditional Nigerian farming and livelihoods.

After the crops (mostly yam) have been planted, women from time to time, go back to remove weeds. On their way back they pick vegetables or fruits either for the household or to be sold on the next market day. They carry these in baskets on their head.

The cycle continues until harvest time. These nostalgic moments are a constant inspiration to Chinedu Ogakwu. Here the farmers are seen carrying wood and tools.

Portrayed in an Abstract African form, two ladies, a fruit seller and friend doing what they know best.

The Cultural Day series: celebrating diversity
The cultural day is a day of an oeuvre of cultural displays. It is a remarkable day for the society, beaming in colorful native attires that showcase and demonstrate cultures from the various tribes in Nigeria.

Here three men and three women are seen wearing traditional attire including the gele headdress.

The Women series: the heart of a nation
Chinedu Ogakwu is also known for his depiction of women. He says “Unique creatures especially loved by God”, he calls them. Rupi Kaur described them perfectly as water soft enough to offer life and tough enough to drown the same life away. Have you ever imagined a day without them? a dance without them? A feast without them?"

He continues "Her guard is down when you give her your attention, love, time, trust and support. Sin against her then she will make life miserable for you only if it is in her power. Always he celebrates them in his works of art."