A solo exhibition by Ekene Nigige
This Little Light of Mine
Overview
In a world often overshadowed by uncertainty, Ekene Ngige’s exhibition, "This Little Light of Mine," invites us to pause and reflect on the resilience and optimism inherent in childhood. Using coffee as his medium, Ngige crafts a narrative that transcends the ordinary, transforming a simple beverage into a powerful symbol of hope and potential.
This body of work reflects Ngige's belief that the light of hope is essential for nurturing children’sdreams. Each piece captures the luminous spark that ignites imagination and fuels aspirations,
reminding us that even in challenging times, this light shines brightly in the eyes of youth. Through his art, Ngige illuminates the pathways of dreams, encouraging viewers to recognize the beauty and strength that children possess.
As we navigate a complex world, it is crucial to recognize our role in nurturing this light within children. Ngige's work compels us to reflect on our responsibilities as caretakers of their dreams, urging us to protect their optimism from the harsh realities they may encounter. The warmth of his coffee medium resonates deeply, evoking feelings of comfort and familiarity while simultaneously
challenging us to confront the adversities faced by the younger generation.
In "This Little Light of Mine”, we are called to action: to safeguard the dreams of children and to ensure that their light continues to shine brightly. This exhibition is not merely an artistic endeavor; it is a collective call to foster a future filled with endless possibilities.
Ngige’s art is both a reflection of his personal journey and a call to nurture the light of hope within every child, a force he believes has the power to transform lives. Through his brushstrokes, Ngige encourages us to embrace individuality, unity, and the shared humanity that can lead us all toward a brighter tomorrow.
Join us in celebrating the resilience of children and the transformative power of hope. Together, let us keep the flame of possibility alive, igniting joy and love in the hearts of the next generation. Through Ngige's insightful works, we can aspire to create a world that reflects the beauty of their dreams.
LOCATION
Nomadic Art Gallery,
22 Adetokunbo Ademola Street,
Victoria Island, Lagos
FEATURED ARTIST
Ekene Ngige
EXHIBITION DATES
03 November - 14 December, 2024
Exhibiting Artist
Ekene Ngige
BIO
Ekene Ngige’s journey from overcoming a childhood disability to becoming a celebrated artist is nothing short of inspiring. Paralyzed at the age of one due to a medical error, Ngige has never let his limitations define him. Supported by the unwavering belief of his parents, he developed a passion for art at just three years old, earning the nickname “Kene da Vinci” from his teacher. Specializing in watercolour, acrylic, and oil painting, Ngige honed his craft at Yaba College of Technology in Lagos, but it was a serendipitous coffee spill in 2014 that led him to his signature medium – painting with coffee.
Ekene Ngige Known as “The Coffee Artist” is from Anambra state but based in Lagos. He discovered Coffee painting in 2015 after a coffee spill on his notepad inspired him to create artworks with the beverage, ever since then, Ekene has been globally known for his Unique coffee pieces.
From highlighting the plight of impoverished children, to depicting vivid drawings of female empowerment as well as putting a spotlight on the series of violent attacks taking place across Nigeria, Ngige sees his art as more than just paintings to be enjoyed but rather a way of telling important African stories and creating awareness as a form of activism promoting peace and unity in Nigeria.
In this exhibition, Ngige unveils pieces that embody the powerful, radiant hope he sees in every child. This light, which fuels dreams even amidst adversity, shines through each portrait—celebrating children’s resilience and boundless imagination. Ngige’s art is both a reflection of his personal journey and a call to nurture the light of hope within every child, a force he believes has the power to transform lives.
Ngige’s creative process begins with a pencil sketch on canvas or paper, followed by the careful layering of coffee mixtures to create striking, monochromatic portraits. His method, which includes the use of ground coffee, instant coffee, and sometimes whole beans, allows him to depict the essence of Africa in each brushstroke. “Coffee was discovered in Africa,” Ngige says, “and its rich brown hues perfectly capture the beauty of our skin and the strength of our continent.” He finishes his pieces with a gloss varnish, ensuring their longevity for at least a century.
Ngige's previous exhibitions include: Coffee meets art 2014, It's all about eve 2016, Coffee festival 2019 Felabration 2019, Impart art fair 2019, Different strokes 2019, The dove series 2021 and Refuge in Community, 2024.
ARTWORKS
Sign up for our Newsletter
We would love to keep you informed about our nomadic art and artists. Sign up to receive news.