Victor Ehikhamenor is a Nigerian visual artist, writer, and photographer known for his vibrant multimedia works that engage with multinational cultural heritage, African spirituality, and postcolonial realities. His art—rich in symbolism and abstraction—is often described as a symbol of resistance to colonialism and appropriation. In 2017, he was one of three artists who represented Nigeria at the Venice Biennale, marking the country's debut at the prestigious art event.
Early Life and Education
Born in Udomi-Uwessan, Edo State, Nigeria—within the ancient Benin Kingdom—Ehikhamenor grew up surrounded by traditional craftsmanship. His:
- Grandmother was a cloth weaver
- Mother was a local artist
- Uncle was a photographer
- Grandfather was a blacksmith
These early influences deeply shaped his creative path. He received his education in Nigeria and the United States, and returned to Lagos in 2008 to further his art career.
Art and Writing
Ehikhamenor’s art is inspired by his traditional upbringing and the visual language of his village, blending indigenous Nigerian spirituality with contemporary aesthetics. His work spans installation, photography, painting, and textiles—often featuring symbolic mark-making reminiscent of shrine walls and fabric patterns.
Exhibitions and International Recognition
- Represented Nigeria at the 2017 Venice Biennale
- Exhibited at Art Dubai (2018) and Biennale Jogja XIII (Indonesia, 2016)
- Featured at an exclusive art showcase for French President Emmanuel Macron at the Afrika Shrine, Lagos
- Held solo and group exhibitions globally, including in London, New York, Dakar, Johannesburg, Poznan, Hamburg, and Abuja
His installations include: - The Wealth of Nations (2016, Jogja Biennale) - Still Standing (2022, St. Paul’s Cathedral, London) - Do This in Memory of Us (2021, Lehman Maupin, New York)
Literary Work
Ehikhamenor is also a respected writer and poet: - "Sordid Rituals" (2002, poetry) - "Excuse Me!" (2012, satire/creative nonfiction) – used as a university text
He has published in: - The New York Times - CNN Online - Washington Post - AGNI Magazine - Wasafiri
His short story "The Supreme Command" won the Association of Commonwealth Broadcasters Award (2003).
Cultural Commentary
On Damien Hirst
During the 2017 Venice Biennale, Ehikhamenor called out British artist Damien Hirst for cultural appropriation. Hirst had displayed a replica of Ori Olokun, a revered 14th-century Yoruba bronze, in his installation Treasures From the Wreck of the Unbelievable, without properly contextualizing its origins.
“The narrative will shift and the young Ife or Nigerian contemporary artist will someday be told by a long nose critic: ‘Your work reminds me of Damien Hirst’s Golden Head.’” — Victor Ehikhamenor
His comments sparked widespread international media attention, reigniting conversations on intellectual ownership and artistic colonialism.
Angels and Muse
In 2018, Ehikhamenor launched Angels and Muse, a multi-modal co-working space and art residency in Ikoyi, Lagos. The visually immersive facility is adorned with: - Wall murals - Stained glass - Ambient lighting
The venue has hosted workshops, exhibitions, residencies, and book readings, and was featured on Netflix’s "Amazing Interiors" (Episode 10, 2018).
Book Cover Designs
Victor Ehikhamenor has designed covers for numerous acclaimed works, including:
- Purple Hibiscus, Half of a Yellow Sun, and Americanah – Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
- Measuring Time and Oil on Water – Helon Habila
- Under the Udala Trees – Chinelo Okparanta
- The Slave Girl, The Bride Price, Head Above Water – Buchi Emecheta
- Jambula Tree and Other Stories, One World Anthology, Story Collection for Caine Prize (various years)
Awards and Residencies
- 2015: Casa Zia Lina, Elba, Italy
- 2016: Nirox & Greatmore Residency (South Africa)
- 2016: Rockefeller Bellagio Fellow
- 2018: Civitella Ranieri Fellow
- 2020: National Artist in Residence, Neon Museum, Las Vegas
Selected Exhibitions
Solo Exhibitions
| Year | Title | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 2000 | Spirits in Dialogue | Brazilian-American Cultural Institute, Washington, D.C. |
| 2007 | Labyrinth of Memories | Didi Museum, Lagos |
| 2014 | In the Lion's Lair | Ake Festival, Abeokuta |
| 2017 | In the Kingdom of This World | Tyburn Gallery, London |
| 2022 | Still Standing | St. Paul’s Cathedral, London |
Group Exhibitions
- 2015: Biennale Jogja XIII, Indonesia
- 2016: Dak’Art Biennale, Dakar, Senegal
- 2017: Biography of the Forgotten, Venice Biennale, Nigerian Pavilion
- 2020: Stellenbosch Triennale, South Africa
- 2021: Looted History, Museum Am Rothenbaum, Hamburg, Germany
Legacy
Victor Ehikhamenor is widely regarded as one of Africa’s most innovative contemporary artists, whose work bridges tradition and modernity, local identity and global commentary. His commitment to preserving indigenous narratives, amplifying African spirituality, and resisting colonial erasure makes him a transformative voice in art and culture.