Victor Ekpuk is an internationally renowned Nigerian artist known for his artwork inspired by ancient African writing and graphic writing systems. INTERwoven TEXTures is his first solo exhibition at the important Efiɛ gallery in Dubai in the United Arab Emirates. There he has also unveiled his public art installation commissioned as part of the inaugural Dubai Calligraphy Biennale. It makes him the first African artist to display a public sculpture in the country.
Ekpuk’s work challenges popular representations of Africa as a continent without writing. (And consequently lacking in history, civilisation, innovation and achievement.) As a critical heritage professor, I have studied and taught Ekpuk’s work to students for years. So I was delighted to view the exhibition and interview the artist in Dubai as part of my ongoing research into his work.
Exploring “traditional” graphic writing forms along with his own style of abstraction, Ekpuk creates a new text. One that reflects both historical and contemporary Africa, yet also reaches beyond the continent. His latest exhibition represents a powerful intervention. In his own words:
