Igbobinna Eze

Igbobinna Eze, (b. 2000) was born in Nsukka, Enugu state and studied Fine and Applied Arts at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka majoring in painting.

Deeply influenced by indigenous art forms like Uli and Nsibidi scripts - key inspirations for the famous artists of the renowned Nsukka Art School of the early 1970’s - Obinna’s works are an exploration of Igbo masquerades, folklore, and societal issues through poetic expression.

His recent series titled Nwauli, introduces ‘Ulyrism,’ a concept where the artist combines the musical and lyrical qualities of Uli symbology with themes of childhood, femininity, and motherhood.

Obinna has participated in multiple group and solo exhibitions, working on both local and international projects. In 2023, he won the second Gerald Chukwuma Prize for a Burgeoning Creative Painter.

ARTIST'S STATEMENT

Through “Ulyrism,” I explore the fusion of sound, movement, and Uli designs from the Igbo culture of southeastern Nigeria.

The works in this exhibition are part of my ongoing Nwauli series, which delves into Ulyrism while reflecting themes of femininity, childhood innocence, and upbringing. The colour blue, which is known to symbolize healing and purity, dominates these pieces. My art is also deeply influenced by Igbo philosophy, surrealism, and masquerade traditions.

Above all, I aim to remind viewers of my work about the interconnectedness of life, as the lines within my paintings reflect the harmonious interaction between the subjects and their surroundings.