tevin noel

Tevin Noel Ngunjiri (b. Nairobi, Kenya) is a self-taught visual artist currently based in Naivasha. He began his artistic journey in early 2023, initially focusing on realistic commissioned portraits rendered primarily in charcoal. As his practice matured, he gravitated towards a more expressive and experimental approach, integrating color, texture, and mixed media to articulate layered visual narratives.

Tevin’s work is deeply rooted in personal exploration. Central to his compositions is the human figure/form, which he uses as a vessel to express emotional states, psychological tension, and existential questions. His figures often appear suspended in surreal or dreamlike settings or represented by nature, challenging the viewer to engage with vulnerability, identity, and the interior self.

Drawing inspiration from everyday life, memory, and introspective moments, Tevin’s work resists categorization, blending realism and abstraction to evoke an emotive experience rather than a literal one. Through his evolving body of work, he invites audiences into moments of quiet reflection, positioning art as both mirror and portal.

Though early in his career, Tevin’s voice is distinct, marked by a raw yet intentional aesthetic that foregrounds the complexity of being. His practice continues to evolve as he pushes the boundaries of material and form in search of new visual languages that speak to the depths of human experience.

niyitegeka jean damascene

Niyitegeka Jean Damascene, born in 1997 and hailing from the picturesque village ​of Keya in western Rwanda, is a burgeoning artist making waves in the ​contemporary art scene.

His artistic odyssey commenced at a tender age of 9, igniting a flame that led him ​to formal education in the arts at the School of Arts in 2016. Drawing inspiration ​from the vibrant tapestry of nature and the profound depths of African culture, ​Damascene's creations resonate with themes of women empowerment, cultural ​identities, and children's rights.

A master of multi-layered paint techniques, Damascene employs the impasto ​method to breathe life into his canvases, transforming them into visual narratives ​that speak volumes to his audience.

A graduate in Creative Design from the esteemed University of Rwanda, ​Damascene's ascent to prominence was marked by his inaugural solo exhibition ​titled "TORMENT" in 2021. This milestone catapulted him onto the stage of an art ​competition in 2022, orchestrated by a foundation under the patronage of the ​First Lady of Rwanda.

With his deft brushstrokes and unwavering commitment to social commentary ​through art, Damascene is poised to carve a significant niche for himself in the ​ever-evolving landscape of contemporary art, both locally and globally.

oluwatobiloba fasalejo

Oluwatobiloba Fasalejo, born in 2000, is a Nigerian-based visual ​artist, painter, and storyteller from Ondo State, Nigeria. He holds ​a bachelor's degree in Fine Art Education from Obafemi Awolowo ​University, Ile Ife, Nigeria, and his artistic journey seamlessly ​melds African heritage with contemporary expression.

Fasalejo's artworks are vibrant compositions of oil and acrylic, ​shedding light on themes of resilience and adaptability. His ​canvases bear faces that embody the enduring spirit of African ​and black communities, each brushstroke narrating tales of ​endurance and adaptation.

Influenced by the fading memories of his grandmother, his art ​captures the ephemeral nature of memory, enriched by tribal ​marks that serve as a profound connection to his roots.

Participating in exhibitions both in Nigeria and internationally, ​Fasalejo's art not only showcases his artistic prowess but also ​offers a unique cultural perspective. His work, blending personal ​narrative with cultural identity, stands as a distinctive voice in ​contemporary art, inviting viewers to explore the intricate layers ​of heritage through each stroke of his brush.

romeo niyigene

Romeo Niyigena (b. 1999) is an emerging contemporary artist ​hailing from Kigali, Rwanda, whose artistic journey began in ​elementary school. However, his passion for art led him to pursue ​formal education in graphic design, culminating in his graduation ​from Ecole d’arts de NYUNDO in 2018.

Niyigena's artistic oeuvre primarily encompasses oils and acrylics ​on canvas, through which he explores the theme of diversity, a ​profound source of inspiration for him. His work is deeply ​influenced by the myriad cultures he has encountered, ​particularly across Africa, a connection fostered by his ​exploration of global cultures online.

Each of Niyigena's creations is imbued with poetic expression, ​weaving a unique narrative or symbolism that invites viewers to ​delve deeper into the layers of meaning within his art. As an ​emerging talent in the contemporary art scene, Niyigena's work ​promises to captivate audiences with its blend of cultural ​richness and artistic depth.

Jean d’Amour Imanishimwe

Jean d’Amour IMANISHIMWE is a contemporary visual artist whose vibrant and expressive style is rooted in the fauvist tradition, characterized by bold colors and dynamic compositions that explore the emotional and psychological landscapes of everyday life. Born in April 1994 in Rubavu district, Western Province of Rwanda, IMANISHIMWE grew up in a creatively nurturing environment, surrounded by artist relatives who played a formative role in shaping his artistic vision and encouraging his pursuit of art as a profession.

He earned a diploma in Graphic Arts in 2014, and shortly after, moved to Kigali, drawn by the city’s dynamic cultural scene and its potential for artistic growth and exchange. His practice is now centered at Live On Art Studio-Kigali, a space where he not only develops his own work but also mentors and collaborates with other artists. In addition to his studio practice, he is the founder of Huza Arts Rwanda, an independent gallery and art initiative dedicated to uplifting both emerging and seasoned Rwandan artists through exhibitions and digital platforms.

IMANISHIMWE’s artistic language leans heavily into abstraction and semi-abstraction, employing vibrant color palettes and bold brushwork to portray themes inspired by his personal experiences and observations. His work is deeply informed by his interactions with people, the complexity of human relationships, wildlife, nature, and the socio-environmental realities of Rwanda and the wider African context. For IMANISHIMWE, color is more than an aesthetic choice—it is an emotional force, a narrative device that channels joy, tension, hope, and resilience.

He sees art as a medium for critical reflection and emotional resonance, one that can challenge perceptions, elevate unheard voices, and spark conversations around identity, struggle, and collective aspiration. His paintings often grapple with the beauty and contradictions of life, navigating between internal musings and shared societal experiences.

IMANISHIMWE’s contribution to the contemporary art scene has not gone unnoticed. In 2023, he was named Artist of the Year by the BE OPEN – Stiftung Foundation, and in 2024, he was awarded the prestigious FIA Art Competition – 120 Years Legendary Award. These recognitions reflect both the depth of his practice and his growing influence on the East African art landscape. Through his work as an artist and cultural entrepreneur, Jean d’Amour IMANISHIMWE continues to shape Rwanda’s creative future—bridging tradition and modernity, personal and political, with a brushstroke that is uniquely his own time.

With an unyielding passion for pushing artistic boundaries and instigating meaningful dialogue, Masoud Ibrahim Kibwana stands as a beacon of innovation within the contemporary art scene, igniting conversations and inspiring change on a global scale.

karen lauren ngarama

Karen Lauren Ngarama, (b.1998) is a self-taught visual artist from Nairobi, Kenya. ​Lauren’s journey into the world of art commenced amidst the challenges of the ​COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.

With an abundance of time at her disposal, Lauren delved into the depths of ​artistic expression, utilizing mediums as diverse as cardboard, thread, ​newspapers, and acrylic paint to breathe life into her creative vision.

Guided by the experienced artist Erick Kobia, also known as Spooky, Lauren honed ​her skills and expanded her artistic repertoire, gaining invaluable insights that ​enriched her expressive abilities. Her paintings are a testament to her profound ​appreciation for vibrant colours, resulting in a dazzling array of hues that reflect ​her boundless enthusiasm for life and her innate talent for crafting beauty.

She draws inspiration from the essence of femininity, the vibrancy of black ​culture, and the rhythmic cadence of music and dance, infusing her creations with ​a sense of vitality and rhythm. Her art embodies a genuine reverence for the ​intricacies of existence, serving as a celebration of life in all its facets.

Through her artistic endeavours, Lauren invites viewers to immerse themselves in ​a world of colour, rhythm, and profound contemplation.

hassan wasiu sunday

Hassan Wasiu Sunday, born on May 24, 1998, in Oyo State, Nigeria, is a ​contemporary artist whose work explores themes of identity, culture, and societal ​issues. Growing up in Eruwa, Ibarapa East Local Government, Hassan's passion for ​art was ignited at a young age.

He received his primary education in Eruwa and completed his secondary ​education at Baptist Model High School, Sanngo, Eruwa. Hassan furthered his art ​education at Adeseun Ogundoyin Polytechnic, Eruwa, where he obtained a ​National Diploma with an upper credit grade.

During his time at the polytechnic, Hassan completed his industrial training at ​Oluwole Omofemi Art Studio, Dugbe, Ibadan, and later at the Center for African ​Arts and Design Gallery, Awotan, Ibadan, under the mentorship of Ellis Oyekola ​[CEFAAD].

Hassan's artistic journey began at Heritage Creations in Eruwa under the guidance ​of Mr. Godwin Segun Adesope. This early exposure laid the foundation for ​Hassan's artistic practice and provided him with invaluable insights into the world ​of art.

With a strong foundation and diverse experiences, Hassan Wasiu Sunday ​continues to explore new artistic horizons, driven by a desire to express his ​unique perspective on the world through his art.

eniafe gbenga michael

Eniafe Gbenga Michael, (b.1994) and currently practicing in Lagos, Nigeria, is a ​self-taught contemporary visual artist whose work resonates with vibrant soulful ​patterns, abstract facial expressions, and figurative realism.

His chosen mediums primarily consist of acrylic and oil paint on canvas. Eniafe's journey into the art world began professionally in 2018. In his work, he ​skillfully incorporates intricate pattern representations.

He exhibited his works at the Gainsborough Hotel in England under the Cynthia ​Corbett Gallery (2022-2023). His artistic prowess has also garnered attention in ​commercial magazines in America and England.

Despite lacking formal education in visual art, Eniafe has honed his craft through ​relentless practice, real-world experience, and unwavering dedication. Drawing inspiration from his personal experiences and societal dynamics, Eniafe ​Gbenga's artworks serve as poignant narratives, delving into themes of black ​identity, societal power structures, and the reclamation of positive narratives.

Through his art, he endeavours to challenge negative stereotypes and offer ​empowering alternatives, contributing to the ongoing dialogue surrounding ​cultural representation and self-affirmation in contemporary society.

isaac bujirwa

Isaac Bujirwa is a versatile visual artist hailing from Goma, Democratic Republic of ​Congo. His journey into the world of art began in his childhood, where he found ​his passion through recycling and drawing. Through his involvement with Life ​Through Arts (@ltaconnect), a local organization, Isaac has refined his skills and ​delved into the fusion of art and technology to drive positive change.

In the past three years, Isaac has developed a unique artistic practice that merges ​photography and drawing, pushing the boundaries between reality and ​imagination. His monochrome works, inspired by the current events in his ​conflict-ridden region, serve as powerful vessels for messages of hope and ​awareness. He focuses particularly on shedding light on the vulnerability of ​children and the plight of child soldiers.

For Isaac, art is not only a means of personal expression and therapy but also a ​powerful tool for social impact. In addition to exhibiting his work locally, he ​actively engages with young people displaced by war in the camps around Goma, ​using art therapy as a means of support. Isaac is also involved in Life Through ​Arts' CANON multimedia training program (@ltaconnect), which focuses on the ​Sustainable Development Goals. The program provides young Congolese adults ​aged 18 to 35 with opportunities to tell their own stories.

Isaac's impactful approach to art explores themes such as memory, identity, ​social movements, and the psyche. Through conceptual notions of self and inner ​dialogues, he demonstrates the healing potential of creative expression, using his ​art to advocate for positive change within his community and beyond.

victor ongwamenhlu

Victor Ogwamenhlu, a self-taught visual artist from Edo State, Nigeria, ​transitioned from engineering to full-time artistry after obtaining his HND in ​Mechanical Engineering from the Petroleum Training Institute in 2019. His art ​journey is deeply rooted in his curiosity about human nature and the significant ​role of the environment in shaping our existence.

Specializing in acrylic painting, Victor’s bold and expressive works often explore ​themes of self-awareness, empowerment, and companionship. His predominant ​use of purple symbolizes pride, royalty, and confidence, reflecting his personal ​evolution and struggles with self-esteem.

Drawing inspiration from his immediate environment, family, and cultural ​experiences, Victor aims to inspire self-awareness and confidence in others. His ​art encourages a deeper understanding and empathy for the human experience, ​promoting a sense of pride and inherent value in every individual, particularly ​within the black community.

Through his distinctive portrayal of humans as purple beings, Victor seeks to ​elevate and celebrate their intrinsic worth.

esther oyeyemi

Esther Oyeyemi, (b.1995) in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria, is an emerging multidisciplinary contemporary artist. From a young age, she displayed a profound enthusiasm for art, exploring various mediums to express her creativity. Her work predominantly features acrylics, delving into the concept of dualism and capturing the essence of her childhood memories.

Oyeyemi's formal art education began with obtaining a Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) in 2017, specializing in painting and graphic arts from Emmanuel Alayande College of Education, Oyo State. She furthered her studies at Obafemi Awolowo University, earning a Bachelor's Degree in Fine and Applied Arts in 2022.

Her artistic journey includes participation in a number of exhibitions, both virtual and physical. These include the Lasgidi Art Exhibition in Lagos (2021), the Art Arising virtual exhibition by Alliance51 (2021), and the prestigious Life in My City Art Exhibition (2022), where she was recognized as one of the top 100 Nigerian artists. And a group virtual exhibition at Harmer Gallery in London, (2023)

Currently based in Oyo State, Nigeria, Esther Oyeyemi continues to advance her artistic career, contributing significantly to the contemporary art scene

jonathan bakenga

Jonathan Bakenga, born in 2001 in the Democratic Republic of Congo, is a ​renowned hyper-realistic visual artist. From an early age, he exhibited a ​remarkable talent for visual arts, particularly drawn to creating realistic images ​and intricate details. His dedication to refining his technique over the years has ​allowed him to master the art of capturing the essence of his subjects with ​astonishing precision.

Bakenga's work is celebrated for its striking realism, characterized by meticulous ​observation and attention to detail. His ability to reproduce shapes, textures, and ​expressions with remarkable accuracy captivates viewers and brings his subjects ​to life on paper. Beyond his technical prowess, Jonathan's art serves as a ​powerful medium for communication and expression, addressing sensitive topics ​such as social injustices and African cultural issues.

Throughout his artistic journey, Jonathan has drawn inspiration from studying ​renowned artists, continually evolving his style and experimenting with new ​techniques and mediums. His talent has not gone unnoticed; his works have been ​exhibited in prestigious art galleries in major cities including Bujumbura, Goma, ​and Nairobi.

Jonathan Bakenga is a passionate and dedicated artist whose work continues to ​inspire and amaze audiences. His commitment to his craft and his unique ​perspective on contemporary issues ensure that he will leave a lasting impact on ​the art world.

febisola oladipo

Febisola Oladipo b. 1996, is a visual artist from Ondo State, Nigeria whose work is a powerful exploration of body positivity and self-acceptance, particularly focusing on the experiences of plus-size women. A graduate of Obafemi Awolowo University, Febisola channels her personal journey into her art, using her canvas to address the often overlooked and misunderstood narratives of women with fuller figures.

Her work is characterized by dynamic shapes and vibrant compositions that emphasize the beauty of all body types, challenging the narrow standards of beauty imposed by society. Through her art, Febisola delves into themes of motivation, beauty, acceptance, and courage. She creates visual stories that speak to the inner strength required to navigate a world that often marginalizes those who do not conform to conventional ideals.

Febisola’s paintings are not just about representation but are also a call to reimagine and celebrate the diverse forms of beauty that exist. Her work encourages viewers to reflect on their perceptions of size and beauty, fostering a more inclusive and accepting view of the human body.

Her artistic journey has seen her participate in both virtual and physical exhibitions, showcasing her work at notable events such as Paradox of Muted Echoes (2022), Coverage Open House Exhibition (2022), Fix It (2023), A Ray of Hope (2023), Uncovering What’s Hidden (2023), Affordable Art Fair (2024), and The Artist Commune Group Exhibition (2024).

elizabeth kiambi

Elizabeth Kiambi (Leezie) is a Nairobi-based Kenyan artist with a background in Fine Art and Design. Her work, rooted in a six-year career in the art industry, explores the depths of human emotion beyond mere physical appearances. Leezie’s paintings aim to capture the inner essence and soul of her subjects, conveying their true identity, emotions, and feelings.

In addition to her traditional painting, Leezie has ventured into the digital realm, collaborating with Black Rhino VR on the State of the Art (SOTA) project. Here, she honed her skills in 3D painting using Open Brush software, with the ambition of bringing her characters to life to narrate their stories.

Alongside her art practice, Leezie is a proficient graphic designer with expertise in software like Illustrator, InDesign, and Photoshop.

She offers comprehensive design and marketing services, specializing in creating logos, corporate identities, and advertising materials that help clients realize their unique visions.

Her works have been showcased in a series of exhibition across the country.

obadipe ayodeji

Obadipe Ayodeji is a Nigerian contemporary artist known for his evocative portraits that delve into themes of self-determination and identity. His work reimagines the stories of both prominent and marginalized Black figures, weaving traditional African narratives with a contemporary artistic approach.

Educated in Fine and Applied Arts at Obafemi Awolowo University's ACE Ondo State and Federal College of Education, Ogun State, Ayodeji has honed a style that is deeply rooted in his cultural heritage

His art primarily employs acrylic on canvas, where he skillfully incorporates maps —both personal and local—into his compositions, symbolizing a deep connection to his homeland and a reflection of his own journey.

Ayodeji’s work is a powerful exploration of African identity, using modern techniques to challenge and redefine the portrayal of African experiences in the global context. His artistic practice is a celebration of self-determination, asserting the importance of African memory and cultural legacy in contemporary art.

James Kamande

James Kamande (b 1992) is multidisciplinary visual artist and sculptor, born and raised in Nairobi city. He draws inspiration from the complexities and uncertainties met by communities and individuals like him, who lives in unplanned and tenureinsecured urban spaces. James is interested in depicting the emotional, psychological and physical impacts of living within these spaces.

His work serves as a lamentation of the disparities existing within our society, confronting the viewers’ assumptions and presumptions about urbanisation and globalisation. Using paintings and relief steel sculptures, he captures the monotony and despair of wage workers as they navigate the harsh realities of underpaid labour, substandard living conditions, and limited opportunities for upward social mobility.

James has participated in several exhibitions at; OneOff Gallery (Kenya), the GoDown Arts Centre (Kenya), Nairobi National Museum (Kenya) and the Afro Art Festival (Serbia), House of Friends (Hof) Gallery USA, Uweza Foundation art Competition finalist 2023(Allianc’e Française).

Kabhula Lango

Kabhula Lango (b. 2001, Goma, DR Congo) is a contemporary visual artist and traditional dance performer whose multidisciplinary practice fuses figurative impressionism with natural sand textures, typography, and fractal-inspired compositions. Deeply rooted in Africa’s ancestral memory, his work reflects an ongoing dialogue between tradition and modernity, using symbolism and abstraction to evoke both the seen and the unseen. By incorporating natural elements into his canvases, Kabhula blurs the lines between painting and sculpture, creating tactile, immersive pieces that invite the viewer to engage with the physical and metaphysical layers of African history and identity.

At the core of his practice is a profound commitment to social justice, particularly addressing gender-based violence, systemic exploitation, and the plundering of Africa’s strategic mineral resources. Through haunting yet captivating imagery, he highlights the physical and psychological scars inflicted on African communities, particularly on women who continue to endure oppression. His work serves as both a visual protest and a call to action, urging a critical re-examination of the structures that perpetuate inequality. Drawing inspiration from Pan-Africanist leaders like Thomas Sankara, Kabhula sees art as a revolutionary tool for decolonizing the mind and reclaiming cultural agency.

Beyond his individual artistic expression, Kabhula’s work embodies an educational dimension, engaging audiences in conversations about Africa’s ontological crisis and the lingering effects of colonialism. He believes that true liberation begins with consciousness, and his art is a means to awaken a collective awareness of Africa’s rich yet fractured identity. By revisiting and reinterpreting African visual languages and historical narratives, he not only preserves cultural heritage but also redefines its place in contemporary discourse. His pieces stand as a testament to resilience, urging Africans to reclaim their narratives and forge a future built on self-determination and cultural pride.

Oyelade Oyewole Tayo

Oyelade Oyewole Tayo (b. 2002, Nigeria) is a contemporary painter whose work explores African identity, beauty, and cultural heritage through a distinctive visual language. Currently pursuing a Higher National Diploma in Painting at Yaba College of Technology, Lagos, Oyewole employs oil and acrylic on canvas to create intricate, woven-like figurations that challenge conventional beauty standards. His compositions, often rich in texture and color, draw inspiration from the layered narratives of African history, tradition, and modernity, offering a reimagined perspective on self-representation

Oyewole’s work has been showcased in both local and international exhibitions, including One Africa: Contemporary Urban Perspective at Eno Gallery, Lagos, and the Risikat Educational Scholarship Auction at Honfleur Gallery, Washington, D.C. His artistic contributions have earned him recognition as one of the top 25 artists in the Life in My City Art Festival (2022), a significant platform for emerging Nigerian artists. Additionally, he is a recipient of the Risikat Okedeyi Iyabo Educational Scholarship Fund, an honor that acknowledges both artistic excellence and academic dedication.

Through his art, Oyewole not only redefines African aesthetics but also engages in a broader dialogue about cultural identity and transformation. His evolving body of work reflects the resilience and vibrancy of contemporary African art, positioning him as a rising voice in the global art scene.