Charles Okereke
Navigating the Intersections of Art and Humanity
Born in 1966 in Kano, Northern Nigeria, Charles Okereke stands as a testament to the expansive potential of multi-media artistry. Okereke's oeuvre encompasses an impressive range of mediums, from painting, photography, and sculpture, to the design and craftsmanship of furniture, showcasing his versatility and creative vision.
At the heart of Okereke's work is a profound commitment to research, particularly focused on themes of humanity and the environment. His approach to art is multifaceted—ranging from direct documentary photography aimed at archival preservation to the reinterpretation of documented subjects into various forms, including installation art and functional design objects. This breadth allows Okereke to explore and express complex narratives within his work, inviting viewers to engage with layers of meaning and interpretation.
Okereke's photographic journey, in particular, reveals a move towards near abstraction, challenging the observer to look beyond the surface to uncover the deeper messages embedded within his images. At first glance, his photographs may not present a clear statement; however, upon closer examination, the viewer is drawn into a rich dialogue with the underlying themes.
As a key figure in the photographic community, Okereke's contributions extend beyond his individual practice. He is a member of the Black Box photography collective and a founding member of the Trans-African Photography Road Trip group, Invisible Borders. These affiliations underscore his commitment to fostering a collaborative spirit among artists and expanding the reach and impact of African photography on the global stage.
Charles Okereke's work has been recognized and celebrated both locally and internationally, marking his presence at major photographic events and exhibitions. Notable appearances include “For a Sustainable World” at the 9th Edition of Bamako in 2013, “Go-Slow: Diaries of Personal and Collective Stagnation in Lagos” at Skoto Gallery in New York, US, also in 2013, and “We Face Forward” at Manchester Gallery in the UK in 2012. These exhibitions have offered platforms for Okereke to share his unique perspective and artistic explorations with a wider audience, contributing to the ongoing discourse on sustainability, stagnation, and forward movement within contemporary society.
Through his diverse body of work, Charles Okereke continues to push the boundaries of artistic expression, weaving together the threads of humanity and the environment into a compelling narrative that speaks to the universal human experience.
