In the fluid and ever-changing world of modern art, Tonye Ekine has emerged as an icon of innovation and cultural resonance. Born in Nigeria and now based in Britain, Ekine’s art depicts an intriguing marriage of traditional heritage and contemporary expression. Recently dubbed one of the top 40 British Rising Stars by the Royal Society of British Artists and having concluded a renowned fellowship at the Venice Biennale under the dignified tutelage of John Akomfrah in the British Pavillion, Ekine’s star is unarguably a fast-rising name in the British art scene.
Ekine’s art is a graphic and emotional odyssey that encapsulates the mundane beauty of everyday life through a unique lens. He deftly utilizes the iconic Ife mask as a central motif in modern environments. The merging of cultural African symbolism and contemporary thematic direction results in a profound narrative that connects the past and present, giving viewers a mind-boggling experience. The Ife mask represents a deep connection to Ekine’s Yoruba heritage and functions as an anchor for ancient traditions and contemporary life. This motif is not just some visual aesthetic but a representation of honouring heritage, whilst innovating and striving for relevance.
The genesis of Ekine’s artistic journey was in Ibadan, Nigeria. His formative years were spent in the colorful artistic community of the University of Ife, an institution acclaimed for its rich cultural tapestry and artistic foundations. Growing up in Ibadan and studying at Ife exposed Ekine to a plethora of cultural heritage and artistic expression, laying the framework for his artistic voice. This early exposure shaped up his perception and unique comprehension of the cultural magnitude of his heritage and that continues to inspire his work.
In 2021, Ekine moved to Britain, a moved that signified a monumental point in his career. Entrenched in the myriad of British art, he found new inspiration and a refreshed sense of purpose. Moving to the UK enabled Ekine to explore different perspectives and artistic spectrums, broadening his horizons and dimensionalizing his grasp of the global art community.
Ekine’s artistic evolution culminated in his debut solo exhibition, One Of Us, which opened in March 2024 and was curated by Steingold Contemporary. Each piece in the collection challenges viewers to pause and reflect on the meaningful moments of everyday life, unveiling the universal truths that holds humanity together. The exhibition captures the crux of the human experience, encouraging viewers to ponder on the intricacies and complexities of ordinary moments.
