‘Ethereal Shadows’ – Opening Reception

‘Ethereal Shadows’, A celebration of contemporary African Artists

Opening reception Saturday February 1,  4 – 7 pm

Join us for a night of celebration of the African spirit!

Ethereal Shadows is a dynamic and thought-provoking group exhibition celebrating the works of leading contemporary artists from Nigeria. This exhibition seeks to illuminate the diversity of artistic practices emerging from one of Africa’s most vibrant and culturally rich nations. The selected artists represent a range of mediums, styles, and perspectives, reflecting the multiplicity of voices shaping the contemporary art landscape in Nigeria today.

Through this exhibition, we aim to present the contemporary Nigerian experience as it unfolds in the 21st century—through visual narratives that address both personal and collective histories, social commentary, and global concerns. By centering the voices of these artists, the exhibition highlights the creative resilience and ingenuity of a nation that, despite its challenges, continues to inspire the global art scene with its unflinching exploration of identity, memory, and transformation.

Ethereal Shadows offers a compelling portrait of Nigeria’s dynamic artistic community, shedding light on the artists who continue to define the cultural dialogue both within and beyond the borders of their home country. 

Featured Artists:  

The exhibition includes works by 5 artists, each contributing a unique perspective to the conversation on contemporary art in Nigeria. The selection of artists includes established figures as well as emerging talents, representing a cross-section of Nigeria’s diverse cultural landscape.

Amos Black – Amos’s art is recognized for its raw honesty and unique storytelling. Each painting is a window into his journey—a testament to resilience, hope, and the unbreakable human spirit. Despite his difficult beginnings, Amos remains driven by a fierce determination to uplift others through his art. He hopes his story will inspire those who feel overlooked, reminding them that creativity can be the bridge between despair and possibility—and that sometimes, all it takes is a single vision to change the course of a life. 

Okereke – Okereke’s distinctive artistic voice seamlessly blends abstraction, cubism, and portraiture to craft evocative narratives.  Drawing deeply from personal experiences, his work explores themes of identity, heritage, cultural preservation, and human connection. 

Ikay Ekhaguere – Through his sculpture and painting, Ikay explores themes of love and universal connection.

Oyedeji Mohammed “ASTROWURLD”  –  As a digital artist, Astrowurld has embraced pointillism, and has coined the phrase “digital alchemy”.  In alchemy, the three dots refer to the three building blocks of life, while the triangle or the number three in many cultures and religions are considered to be the basis of existence. To Astrowurld, these symbolic representations mean life. 

“ELYSEES” – Elsie Okoyeigwe –  Chioma “Elsie” Okoyeigwe focuses on creating bold illustrations that explore the beauty of women and the  cultural richness of her African heritage. Her masterful use of charcoal and ink creates a striking harmony between Black African identities and the timeless allure of Ancient Greek sculpture, blending tradition with modernity in her compositions. 

Curatorial Statement:

Ethereal Shadows seeks to capture the pulse of Nigeria’s rapidly evolving artistic ecosystem. The works in this exhibition transcend mere representation, using visual language to probe deeper societal concerns and offer new interpretations of Nigerian identity in a global context.

The exhibition encourages viewers to reflect on the complex nature of contemporary life in Nigeria—where centuries-old traditions coexist with the rapidly changing dynamics of urbanization, technology, and globalization. The participating artists engage with both local and international narratives, offering fresh and powerful commentaries on the socio-political realities of their country.

By centering the voices of these artists, the exhibition highlights the creative resilience and ingenuity of a nation that, despite its challenges, continues to inspire the global art scene with its unflinching exploration of identity, memory, and transformation.

Ethereal Shadows offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the cutting-edge of Nigerian visual culture, encouraging deeper dialogue about the country’s role in shaping global contemporary art. Through this exhibition, we invite viewers to not only witness but also engage with the complexities of Nigerian society as expressed through the powerful lens of contemporary art.

The exhibit is on view from January 31 – March 16 at the Space gallery in Montclair NJ.  The gallery is open to the public every Friday and Saturday 11 – 6 pm, and Sundays from 11 – 5 pm.  Private appointments are also available during the week.