Clara Ugbodaga-Ngu, Abstract (1960)

• Research and Cultural Collections, University of Birmingham [1]

Fig.1 Clara Ugbodaga-Ngu, Abstract (c. 1960). © The copyright holder. Image courtesy of Research and Cultural Collections, University of Birmingham.

Ugbodaga-Ngu (1921-1996) was a pioneer of Nigerian modernism, and helped to influence a generation of African artists. Her long career featured many standout moments. In 1955 she became the only Nigerian teacher in the Fine Art Department of the Nigerian College of Arts, Science and Technology in Zaria. Throughout her teaching career, she taught members of the Zaria Art Society - a group of young Nigerian artists who helped to establish post-colonial modernism. In 1958, she became the first female Nigerian artist to have a solo exhibition in London. In 1975, she began serving as state advisor to the Festival of Arts and Culture, a pioneering festival that celebrated black artists from across Africa and beyond.

Her work in the University of Birmingham’s Research and Cultural Collections is notable for its blending of traditional Nigerian styles with European modernism. Ugbodaga-Ngu takes influence from early 20th-century cubism, although the painting appears to be entirely abstract and is not based around real-life objects. The rich, earthy colour palette and sculptural forms are reminiscent of traditional African art. This highly textural work boldly explores colour and shape. The thick application of paint creates an image that is connected to the Nigerian landscape while referencing the Modern European painting.

Endnotes

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