Emmanuel Eni, widely recognized as an avant-garde Nigerian-born German artist and poet, has carved an indelible mark in the world of contemporary art. A career that is artistically sparkling spiritually, just like his name, Emmanuel – God is with us.

MOSOTUNYA FALLS (THE SMOKE THAT THUNDERS).

The rainbow dived into the waterfall
ignoring the shrill and hoax voices
following the dark and mighty silver riff,
her precipice and grandios home.

Laughters and voices, chuckling and chortling,
rising high behind water curtains
and droping down, fading into the skies
like a golden mirror, like a mirage.

People started chattering excitedly.
They have seen the grandeur
of the waterfall.

Daringly they continued to decend,
then went slowly and much
more as cautiously

with awe. As they all started crossing
the sturdy old knife – bridge
with rain falling down,

two bottomless valleys that were holding
on their vague distant planes,
Zambia, Malawi and

Zimbabwe. The knife – bridge, carried rain
cutting through the valley
like a clever headless snake

guided by the rainbows and charged voices,
the falling waters’ roar
and the golden – dew sky,

it carried the long line of joy – proccession
through the last visable
view point – to Zambezi.

                           Emmanuel Eni, 27/5/24

It is very evident that despite assimilating a western culture nuances, Emmanuel Eni’s Igbanke spirit and culture cannot leave him. He still breathe the Igbanke fresh air every step he takes.

Why is pain
in front of the word painting

Emmanuel , also known as “Blackman in European Kitchen,” is a celebrated Nigerian-born German artist and poet, renowned for his dynamic contributions to contemporary art. Born in 1967, in Igbanke, Nigeria, Eni began his artistic journey at Igbobi College in Lagos before furthering his studies at the Polytechnic of Auchi and the University of Benin. A Niger Deltan with high valour to express his mind. Typical of the culture of the land.

Internationally recognized, Eni has exhibited his works at prestigious venues like the Biennale d’art contemporain de Lyon and Dak’Art, as well as participating in documenta 12 in Kassel. His artistic repertoire spans painting, sculpture, multimedia installations, and performance art, establishing him as a versatile and innovative figure in the global art scene.

Eni’s creative philosophy, rooted in what he calls “contemporary barock art,” blends diverse artistic elements into cohesive expressions. He is also known for pioneering New LightPaintings Art, pushing boundaries and challenging conventions with each new creation.

One of his most iconic sculptures, the monumental “Elephant,” crafted from reinforced concrete, symbolizes his deep reverence for nature. Eni views the elephant as the “ogbonge mother of all animals,” a nod to its role in African folklore and its critical place in the ecosystem. His dedication to environmental sustainability was vividly demonstrated in his 2006 performance piece “Junking of the Elephant,” where he publicly dismantled the 20-ton sculpture as a poignant statement on the threats facing wildlife.

Eni’s artistic journey embodies the resilience and dynamism of Nigerian creativity, reflecting both local traditions and global influences. His acclaim extends beyond borders, earning him a place among Forbes’ list of influential artists in 2020.

Emmanuel Eni’s impact on contemporary art is profound, challenging viewers to reconsider their relationship with nature and culture. His provocative performances and insightful sculptures continue to spark conversations about environmental conservation and cultural heritage.

The mind is like a parachute. It works best when it is open.

Through his art, Eni bridges the gap between traditional Nigerian motifs and contemporary global discourse, offering a unique perspective on issues that resonate universally. His work serves as a powerful reminder of art’s ability to transcend barriers and inspire change in society.

I was caught in the prison.
In colours of the graffiti train.

Little passengers
called out stops
within their children songs.

And shades of sun
between dark frames
drove the eye
to sense gloom,

like long built inside,
a treacherous machine.

Impacting all,
were particles of stardust
and it’s message that
sent hope to me.

In my prison house
was a window
and I could read you in
the mirage’s picture

that was thrown down
my reclusive bed,
on sunny day.

You, washing your feet.
Through out all the lost
facades.

In the face of the
love and love of prime.

Knowing that you are behind
and I see and hear you walk
by my heart side.

                    Emmanuel Eni.
                  

Words by Ireho Aito/ Don’t Keep Your Art in the Finger!

Poems/Artworks/Pictures courtesy of Emmanuel Eni