Ihilosen

Artist

Victor Ehikhamenor

Born in Nigeria

The Roots of Udomi-Uwessan

A small village in Edo State, Nigeria, provides the initial frame. In 1970, Victor Ehikhamenor is born into a landscape defined by the traditions of the Benin Kingdom. The visual language of his childhood is not found in books but in the tactile reality of his kin: a grandmother weaving cloth on a min-loom, an uncle capturing moments through a camera lens, and a maternal grandfather working as a blacksmith. These figures move through a world of locally dyed threads and charcoal pigments applied to shrine walls.

The transition to formal education brings a shift in geography and discipline. He moves from Ambrose Alli University, where he studies English and Literary Studies, to the United States. At the University of Maryland, his intellectual pursuits expand into Technology Management and Creative Writing. This duality—the technical precision of IT and the narrative depth of literature—begins to merge with the ancestral imagery of his youth.

The Architecture of Memory

The work emerges as a collision of disparate histories. He utilizes materials that bridge the gap between the sacred and the secular, often integrating Catholic rosary beads, coral beads, and lace textiles into his compositions. In pieces like Crown Prince or Holy Totem, the physical presence of these objects creates a heavy, sculptural texture. The application of paint is thick and rhythmic, using impasto techniques to build ridges that catch the light.

His practice explores several distinct modes of expression:

Gestural Abstraction: Using swirling lines and fragmented geometric shapes to suggest a layered reality.

Symbolic Iconography: Drawing from Edo religion and Catholicism to address the complexities of postcolonial identity.

Multidisciplinary Formats: Moving between painting, photography, sculpture, and perforated works on paper using 24k gold leaf and walnut ink.

The themes are often political and deeply personal. He addresses the socioeconomics of contemporary black lives and the tension between Western beliefs and African traditional religion. The repetition of eyes in works such as Revered Dream Sellers of Lagos suggests a heightened state of perception, turning the canvas into a site of spiritual awareness.

Global Presence and Activism

The year 2017 marks a significant moment when he is selected to represent Nigeria at the Venice Biennale, participating in the nation's first-ever pavilion at the event. This stage allows his work to engage with international audiences, presenting portraits of African spaces that confront colonial legacies and the politics of cultural repatriation. His influence extends beyond the gallery walls into the literary world, having designed book covers for authors such as Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.

Beyond the studio, he acts as a facilitator for the creative community in Lagos. He founds Angels and Muse, a multi-modal co-working space and residency that supports contemporary African art and literature. Through the Ink Not Blood initiative, he also works to promote peace during the Nigerian electoral process. His life remains split between the energy of Lagos and the academic environment of Maryland, maintaining a continuous dialogue between his two worlds.

Museum

Rele Arts Foundation

On show in Lagos, Nigeria

Rele Arts Foundation: A Pulse of Contemporary African Art

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Lagos, Nigeria, the Rele Arts Foundation stands as a beacon illuminating the dynamic landscape of contemporary and traditional African art. More than just a gallery, it’s a carefully cultivated space—a cultural hub where established masters converse with emerging voices, and where the echoes of ancient traditions resonate within the framework of modern expression. Founded by Adenrele Sonariwo in 2010, Rele has rapidly become a pivotal force, not only within Nigeria but increasingly on the global stage, bridging continents and fostering a deeper appreciation for the rich artistic heritage of the continent.

The foundation’s ethos is rooted in a commitment to providing opportunities for Nigerian artists – particularly those often overlooked by mainstream institutions. This dedication manifests powerfully through its Young Contemporaries program, a prestigious initiative offering mentorship, residencies, and exhibition platforms to a select group of rising talents. But Rele's impact extends far beyond this single program; it’s woven into the very fabric of the gallery itself, a carefully curated environment designed to showcase the breadth and depth of African creativity. The architecture reflects this philosophy – clean lines and minimalist design create a neutral backdrop that allows the artwork to command center stage, while strategic use of natural light enhances the colors and textures, inviting viewers to fully immerse themselves in each piece.

A Tapestry of Tradition and Innovation

Rele’s collection is a compelling dialogue between the past and present. Alongside a significant selection of traditional masks and sculptures – powerful embodiments of Nigerian cultural history and spiritual beliefs – you'll discover a diverse array of sculptural works, ranging from abstract explorations of form to evocative figurative representations. These pieces often grapple with themes of identity, social commentary, and environmental concerns, reflecting the complexities of contemporary African life. The gallery’s commitment to showcasing cutting-edge work from emerging Nigerian artists is particularly noteworthy; they are actively shaping the future of art in Africa, pushing boundaries and challenging conventions.

Notable exhibitions have cemented Rele's reputation as a vital platform for artistic discourse. “The Atlantic Triangle,” curated by Alfons Hug in 2017, offered a powerful exploration of interconnectedness across continents, while "Her Story" provided a poignant lens through which to examine the experiences of women within African society. Perhaps most strikingly, Rele has partnered with Samsung on an ongoing initiative, “Tech Meets Art,” demonstrating a willingness to embrace innovation and explore the intersection of art and technology – a testament to its forward-thinking approach.

Expanding Horizons: Los Angeles and Beyond

In 2021, Rele Arts Foundation took a bold step, establishing a location in Los Angeles, California—a landmark achievement as it marked the first African gallery to call the city home. This expansion represents more than just geographical growth; it signifies a deliberate effort to connect African art with a global audience and foster cross-cultural exchange. The Los Angeles space mirrors the ethos of the Lagos gallery – prioritizing emerging talent and creating a welcoming environment for both local collectors and international visitors.

A Unique Cultural Hub

What truly distinguishes Rele Arts Foundation is its role as a vibrant cultural hub. It’s a place where artists, curators, critics, and enthusiasts converge to exchange ideas, celebrate creativity, and build connections. The foundation actively promotes dialogue and appreciation for the diverse artistic expressions of Africa, fostering a sense of community and belonging. Rele's influence extends beyond its physical spaces; it has become synonymous with contemporary African art, inspiring artists and collectors alike to embrace the continent’s rich creative legacy.

Notable Artists at Rele

Olumide Onadipe:

A Nigerian artist blending traditional and contemporary techniques to tackle environmental themes and social commentary. His work offers a powerful reflection on the challenges facing Africa today.