Cultural Identities by Johnson Eziefula

Nigerian artist, Johnson Eziefula, uses a beautiful mix of media (from charcoal, acrylic, fabric, etc.) to tell a much needed story about globalization and mixed cultural identities. He tells stories of individuals who emigrate and have to fit into the society they go to, while keeping elements of the society they come from. From adapting to pop culture, to still being proud of your Black heritage - each subject in Eziefula’s portraits is dealing with mixed identities. 

The Nigerian artist is even more fascinating because of the unique shadow play in most of his works. His subjects are rich with melanin, celebrating their black skin in glaring details; many of the subjects have glossy skin that proudly emphasizes their Blackness even further.

Some of our favorite pieces from the artist are below.

See more of Johnson Eziefula’s works on Instagram, and read this insightful article about him on Artsy.