BEN OSAWE

BEN OSAWE A PROMINENT AND EARLY ARTIST OF THE POST INDEPENDENCE ERA BEST KNOWN FOR MODERN SCULPTURES AND WOOD CARVING.

Ben Osawe was a Nigerian artist born on the 3rd of August, 1931 in the town of Agbor Delta State, Nigeria. He was first introduced to art by his father, who was a sculptor serving as a wood carver to the court of the Benin Kingdom

Osawe went to UK for his formal education. By the 1960's, Ben had already exhibited throughout Europe. He was a prominet figure in the art world and a highly regarded Nigerian artist known for his unique style and technique. Osawe was largely a self-taught artist and began his career as a sign painter, but later transitioned into fine art, where he became a pioneer of contemporary African art.

Osawe's work was heavily influenced by traditional African art, and also drew inspiration from the works of Pablo Picasso and Vincent van Gogh. He was known for his use of vibrant colors and bold brushstrokes, which portrayed his deep understanding of Nigerian culture and traditions. His works often depicted scenes from everyday life, including marketplaces, musicians, and dancers, and were characterized by a sense of movement and energy.

As one of Nigeria's foremost artists, Osawe's works were exhibited in various galleries and museums around the world. Some of his most notable exhibitions include the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of African Art in Washington, D.C., the Museum of Modern Art in New York City, and the National Gallery of Zimbabwe in Harare. Despite his international acclaim, Osawe remained committed to his roots and continued to draw inspiration from Nigerian culture throughout his life. He was a mentor to many young artists and played an important role in the development of the Nigerian art scene. Ben Osawe passed away on the 16th of May, 2007 at the age of 75, but his legacy lives on through his art. His contributions to the world of art have helped to shape contemporary African art and continue to inspire and influence young artists today.