Nigerian Modernism is a new exhibition at London’s Tate Modern gallery. Tracing the development of modern art in Nigeria, the show spans a period from the 1920s to the 1990s. This was a time of huge political and social change in Nigeria as the country went from indirect colonial rule through to independence, civil war and beyond.

Nigeria’s artists drew inspiration from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. During the colonial years, many artists were taught in Britain. Others drew on personal indigenous tribal traditions, religion, pan-African culture, and life in Europe. Returning slaves (“returnees”) from Europe and the Americas also brought different influences to the art world. Following independence in 1960, new artistic and literary clubs were founded across economically booming Nigeria, furthering the art movement.

The show comprises works from over fifty artists across painting, sculpture, textile, ceramics, and works on paper. Highlights include the political cartoons of Akinola Lasekan. The works of Ben Enwonwu, the first African modernist to gain international recognition also shine. The Zaria Art Society, founded in 1958, nurtured an important group of Nigerian artists, several of whom feature. The works of leading modernist architects James Cubitt, T P Bennett and Design Group also appear, their modernist structures adapted to deal with the hot tropical heat. The soundtrack to the optimistic post-independence times was Highlife, which emerged from the nightclubs of rapidly-urbanising Lagos. Developed by returning slaves, Highlife was a fusion of Latin, European and African music. Several vinyl record sleeves add to the show.

There’s a lot going on in the show, too much to mention here – it’s as much a history lesson as an art show, a very vibrant history lesson. Recommended.

Tate Modern
Nigerian Modernism
8 October 2025 – 10 May 2025