‘Nigerian Modernism: Art & Independence’ @tate is absolutely worth seeing.
Drawings, paintings, sculpture, photography, ceramics, textiles, music, architecture… every discipline is represented through truly wonderful works.
You will see influences from the East and West, from different historical periods, but above all, a rich sense of authentic storytelling and craft rooted in a deep heritage.
There’s far too much to cover in one post, so here are a few of my favourite details to look for:
Unlike the Western gaze, which can often over sensualise representations of African women, the works here celebrate them and their culture with respect and storytelling that ensured they are a part of.
I was also fascinated by the details in the sculptures. Look at the second photo and notice the crown-like hair of that bust. It completely blew me away.
Another thing I loved was the dynamism in the compositions. There’s so much energy and movement.
Finally, and to nobody's surprise (if you know me) I was especially drawn to the wall sculptures by El Anatsui and I’ll share a post focusing on those soon... For now, just to let you know that this is a top exhibition
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