Ben Enwonwu (1921-1994) Negritude
Provenance :
Exhibited :
Literature :
Notes : As a leading pioneer of Nigeria’s modern art movement, Ben Enwonwu is regarded as one of the twentieth century’s most renowned visual artists. Cementing the importance of modern African art at the time of looming independence from colonial rule, Enwonwu articulated a language and vision for African art that was defined by its own rules rather than the limitations of Western art-historical models. Educated at Ruskin College, Oxford, and the Slade School of Art, London, Enwonwu was influenced by European modernism and the bourgeoning philosophies of the Negritude movement, which placed emphasis on Africa’s cultural history and artistic traditions as a defense against colonial oppression. Enwonwu’s work reflects a sophistication and technical mastery of form while celebrating the richness of Nigerian and African culture. (JG)
Condition_report :
