In Conversation with Artist Oliver Enwonwu: Art, Memory, Vision

The trailblazing artist Oliver Enwonwu shares personal reflections on growing up immersed in art, learning his craft through the lens of his father, Ben Enwonwu MBE, Africa’s pioneering modernist, and how this shaped his own distinctive voice.

He examines his practice through history, memory, and identity, focusing on their intersections with colonial legacies and global migration.  As President of the Society of Nigerian Artists (2009 - 2021) and founder of Omenka Gallery and Omenka Magazine, Oliver has played a key role in advancing African art on the global stage.  A Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, he also serves on the boards of several cultural organisations, including the Lagos Biennial.

The conversation will reflect on Oliver's deep connection to Nigeria as a British-Nigerian artist, and the impact of the Ben Enwonwu Foundation, established by Oliver to preserve and expand his father’s legacy. 

Expect thoughtful dialogue, creative insight, and reflections on art’s power to shape cultural narratives.

A detailed event programme will follow shortly.

This event forms part of the V&A Academy's season celebrating Nigeria in the collection including the event Proud and Free: Celebrating Nigerian Design and Culture at the V&A  https://shorturl.at/hf0Uy