Nengi Omuku at Frieze London: A Gallery of Nigerian Triumph
Unique Art Installations at Frieze London
Nengi Omuku, a Nigerian artist based in London and Lagos, took her art to new heights at Frieze London this year. Her three large artworks, hanging away from walls to allow for viewers to walk around them, showcased unique fabric paintings on both sides. One side featured vibrant nature scenes, while the other used sanyan, a thick traditional Nigerian fabric, as the canvas. This creative application of sanyan emphasizes both Nengi’s love for her Nigerian heritage and her artistic innovation.
The Flow of Sanyan Fabric in Omuku’s Work
“Painting on a vintage surface gives soul to my work,” explained Omuku over a Zoom call before the fair. She values the authenticity and historical significance of these fabrics, which have become an integral part of her artistic process. For her, collaborating with Nigerian craftsmen to create the perfect sanyan surface is more than just an aesthetic choice—it is a way to preserve traditional Nigerian craftsmanship and fight against the extinction of old techniques caused by fast fashion.
Honoring Nigerian Culture Through Art
Since completing her degrees at the prestigious Slade School of Fine Art, Omuku has exhibited in major global cities like London, Paris, Bangkok, and New York. Her work is also featured in notable collections such as the Baltimore Museum of Art and the Loewe Art Collection, and she is represented by major galleries including Pippy Houldsworth Gallery and Kristin Hjellegjerde in London, and The Kasmin Gallery in New York. Most recently, in a significant accolade, the British Prime Minister Keir Starmer selected her piece "All Things Being Equal" (2024) to be hung at 10 Downing Street, reflecting the global recognition and esteem Nengi holds.
Integration of Nigerian Culture and Personal Reflection
Omuku’s journey as an artist has allowed her to deeply integrate Nigerian culture into her work, learning how to prepare the sanyan surface without losing its cultural significance. "I still paint on vintage textiles, but I’ve learned to spin cotton in places like Dakar, Senegal," she said. "Now we work with a family of cotton spinners to make sanyan specifically for paintings." This story of preservation and innovation adds depth to her art and resonates with her audience, highlighting the resilience and creativity of Nigerian culture.
Abstract Human Figures and Landscapes Filled with Historical References
Omuku’s aesthetically captivating paintings often feature abstract human figures in dream-like natural settings, reflecting the collective experiences of Nigerians. In her most significant painting at Frieze, titled "Swing Low" (2024), figures appear to be leisurely strolling through a beautiful landscape. Beneath the surface, however, images of political unrest and chaos—and the continuous figures tumbling through it—expose the darker realities that Nigerians collectively face. This duality in her art acts as a reminder of the resilience and beauty that can be found amidst adversity.
handling a Mental Health Crisis Through Art
Omuku’s experience in understanding the collective mental health crisis in Nigeria has been a driving force in her art, particularly since her return from studying abroad. "I focused on my interiority initially, but noticed this huge mental health crisis," she said. "And that’s when I started thinking more about the collective—how we’re experiencing things as a nation." This level of personal and collective introspection shines through in her work and connects with her audience on a profound emotional level.
Whimsy Meets Depth in Omuku’s Landscapes
Despite the whimsical nature of Nengi Omuku’s artworks, each piece requires meticulous planning and consideration. "Even though the paintings look quite whimsical, they actually take quite a bit of planning," she shared. There’s a depth of craftsmanship buried beneath the surface, invoking the beauty of our shared world and reminding viewers not to lose sight of the inherent goodness around us.
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