Uche Okeke, 
Nigerian 1933-2016 - 
Mural for the Children's Library in Enugu, c.1964;
oil on panel,...

Uche Okeke, 
Nigerian 1933-2016 - 

Mural for the Children's Library in Enugu, c.1964;

oil on panel, three parts, 122 x 452.7 cm (overall), 122 x 101 cm (left), 122 x 244.2 cm (middle), 122 x 107.5 cm (right)

Note:
a copy of a certificate from the The Asele Institute, Nimo, Anambra State, Nigeria, established by Okeke in 1958, accompanies this lot. 

Provenance:
the Family of the Artist, acquired from the Enugu State Library Board

Note:
a pioneering figure in modern African art, Uche Okeke was a co-founder of the Zaria Art Society in 1958, in which he created his own visual language called Natural Synthesis—a fusion of indigenous Nigerian aesthetics with the European style techniques being taught by most of the professors at the the Nigerian College in early stages of British colonialism. He sought to create art that both reflected local aesthetics and represent African Modernism.

This monumental painting is a striking example of his mastery of his new visual language of European expressionism and post-Impressionism with traditional flowing, calligraphic lines and symbolic motifs rooted in uli, the traditional Igbo art form of line making, often murals.

This work was created for the children's section in the East Central State Library in Enugu, Nigeria, which was founded by UNESCO in 1958. Through striking colours and dynamic linework, Okeke weaves a visual narrative rich in cultural heritage, yet delightful enough to captivate the children within its walls.

Okeke held many teaching positions over his career, including Head of the Fine Arts department at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, from 1971 to 1985. He cultivated many students, including El Anatsui.

Okeke's works have been widely exhibited and are held in major collections such as the Museum of Modern Art, New York, National Gallery of Modern Art, Lagos, and the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art, Washington, DC.