"My work celebrates Black culture, focusing on the dynamic energy of youth. I explore their relationships, evolving cultural expressions, and appearance, seeking to capture the essence of a life I didn’t live but might have, had I been born in this generation."
Born on December 1st, 1968, in Ibadan, Nigeria, Ebenezer Samuel Akinola is a leading voice in contemporary African art. Graduating top of his class with a Bachelor's degree in painting from the University of Benin in 1989, Akinola's vision extends beyond the ordinary, actively challenging stereotypical narratives about Africa and Black culture.
In his paintings and figure studies, Akinola champions contemporary Black sensibilities, engaging with and critiquing prevailing notions of race, gender, beauty, spirituality, identity, and the political landscape of modern Africa. Akinola's masterful skill lies in weaving
realistic and abstract elements, creating works rich in detail and depth. His subjects, often portrayed in portraits and figure compositions, come alive with intricate layers that draw attention to key aspects of his message.
Widely recognized and celebrated, Akinola has received prestigious commissions, including portraits of former Nigerian leaders Nnamdi Azikiwe, Abdulsalami Abubakar, and Olusegun Obasanjo. These iconic pieces find their rightful place in the National Gallery of Art in Nigeria. Akinola's artistic impact transcends national borders, evidenced by his exhibitions in renowned venues across the globe, from the United States to Belgium, Italy, Morocco, and Spain. His global presence serves as a testament to the universality of his art, offering audiences worldwide a compelling lens through which to engage with African identity and contemporary issues.
Deeply rooted in the vibrant legacy of Nigerian art, Akinola cites Erhabor Emokpae, Ben Enwonwu, Aina Onabolu, and Abiodun Olaku as his major influences. From Emokpae's masterful portraiture to Enwonwu's exploration of identity, Akinola draws inspiration and builds upon the foundation laid by these pioneers, shaping his own unique artistic voice that continues to challenge and inspire.
Akinola's impact extends beyond his own art. He is a dedicated mentor and source of inspiration for many established and upcoming artists. His generosity and wisdom in sharing his knowledge and experience contribute significantly to the flourishing of the artistic community in Nigeria and beyond.
ARTIST STATEMENT
I paint what I see, not what I believe.
I am a figurative artist, primarily working with oil on canvas, a medium I have cherished for many years. The unique qualities of oil paint—its ability to build layers, create transparency, opacity, and semi-opacity, as well as its fluidity and malleability—are what draw me to it.
These properties allow me to express depth, texture, and emotion in ways that other mediums cannot.
My work celebrates Black culture, focusing on the dynamic energy of youth. I explore their relationships, evolving cultural expressions, and appearance, seeking to capture the essence of a life I didn’t live but might have, had I been born in this generation. I am fascinated by the consistent patterns of human behavior, particularly among young people from diverse backgrounds. Despite differences in culture, there is a shared language of self- expression—through fashion, music, and interactions—that transcends borders.
The African youth today emanate a powerful, pulsating energy—an energy that is evident in their music, their style, and their attitude. This energy is the result of a cultural evolution that began as a blend of Western influences but has now transformed into a distinctive movement all its own. It is a movement that is rapidly influencing global trends in music, fashion, and identity. African youth are reclaiming their space, stepping out of the margins where they have long been relegated, and asserting their leadership on the world stage. My work reflects this
moment of transformation, expressing the acceptance and celebration of our identity as Black people. It is about embracing individuality, sexuality, and personality with pride. The youth of today are not only finding their voice—they are demanding to be heard, setting the agenda for a new cultural era.
My creative process is rooted in both observation and imagination. I begin by carefully observing the world around me, and then, through a thoughtful process of reflection, I craft narratives that come to life on the canvas. This approach allows me to create works that are
not just visually striking but also deeply resonant, inviting viewers to connect with the stories and emotions conveyed through each piece.
