Klaranze Okhide, a talented protégée of acclaimed artists Sam Ovraiti and Juliet Ezenwa Maja-Pearce, is set to dazzle art enthusiasts with her latest exhibition, ‘Ephemeral Narratives,’ at the Bouygues Club House in Abuja. This showcase promises to unveil the distinctive voice of a rising star, shaped by the mentorship of two artistic giants. Writes Ireho Aito

Nigerian painter Klaranze Okhide has been on an artistic sprint since graduation in 1999, bringing her passion to life on canvas in exhibition halls. Her journey has been marked by notable showcases, between 2024 and 2025, she has been a moving train in the business. You may be amazed with the roll call of exhibitions she has been part of such as “Constellation by Auchi Klass of 99,” a group exhibition celebrating the 25th anniversary of her graduating class from the School of Art and Design, Federal Polytechnic Auchi. Held at the Iwalewa Gallery of Art in Lagos, this exhibition brought together exceptional and gifted artists from her alma mater in 2024

Klaranze’s artistic trajectory continued with “Creative Tides,” another impactful group exhibition at the iconic National Museum Onikan in Lagos, where she not only participated but also took on the role of curator. This dual capacity allowed her to showcase her artistic prowess while also demonstrating her skills in curation. Creative Tides came towards the end of 2024, one of the winding up shows of the year.

This year alone, Klaranze has participated in ‘Deconstructing Unity’ a group exhibition of four great artists that has Moses Oghagbon, the explorer painter and the creative genius behind Argungu series exhibition.

Through these exhibitions, Klaranze Okhide has solidified her presence in the art world, leaving an indelible mark on audiences and art enthusiasts alike.

Yet again, Ephemeral Narratives, a solo show, coming up on the 24th of May 2025 and ending 2nd of July 2025, Klaranze knew with clearer eyes that she is in the game and it is her desire that has propelled her success journey.

Ephemeral Narratives will be ably curated by Danielle Fichter of Bouygues Club House, Abuja, the exhibition is bringing out more juicy components from hardworking Klaranze Okhide who happened to be a protege of legendary painter, Sam Ovraiti.

Klaranze was under the tutelage of this master for a longer time than any other artist. And she confessed about her first encounter with him shaped her path forever.

Klaranze’s mentor, Sam Ovraiti, profoundly influenced her artistic perspective, offering a unique visual interpretation of her experiences. This guidance shaped her understanding of the world, as reflected in her work. Klaranze’s choices would ultimately define her artistic path.

Klaranze chose the right path from that school gate until she graduated. At a time, she was living with Ovraiti and his family when she eventually moved her career to Lagos. Sam Ovraiti, the singing bird, shaped a painter of illustrious quality.

On the 24th of May, cocktail will be served to usher in art enthusiasts and collectors to Klaranze Okhide’s solo exhibition entitled Ephemeral Narratives.

In her artist statement, she stated, “In ‘Ephemeral Narratives,’ I embark on a visual journey that weaves together the vibrant threads of my Nigerian cultural heritage. This series of works is a reflection of my personal struggles with identity, as I navigate the complexities of immigration, culture, and personality.”

Bouygues Club House Abuja is one of the most alluring places to be in Abuja at the moment. The country’s capital has in the midst a place designed to nurture talents into prominence.

According to Danielle Fichter, who manages Bouygues Club House, Abuja, in an interview she granted Klaranze Okhide, “Our Club House is committed to promoting creativity and providing opportunities for emerging artists,” she revealed to her. She stated further that “by supporting emerging artists, we are contributing to the growth and development of the art in Nigeria.”

Danielle Richter and the Club House passion for promoting local artists has created a space where creativity can flourish. Through her and her team’s efforts, they have been able to experience the diverse perspectives and talents of artists like Klaranze Okhide coming on the 24th of May.

Klaranze Okhide’s exposition is a confirmation to her deep passion for the environment. Through her notable series, “Tree” and “Market,” she masterfully weaves together themes of conservation and sustainability, inspiring a vision for a better climate and world.

Her upcoming solo exhibition, “Ephemeral Narratives,” promises to be a powerful showcase of her artistic vision, running from May 24th to July 2nd, 2025.

With each artwork, Klaranze’s dedication to environmental conservation shines through, serving as a constant reminder of the importance of protecting our planet’s resources.

Her artistry is not just a reflection of her creativity, but a call to action, urging us to join her in the pursuit of a more sustainable future.

“In a world where advancement and immigration are inevitable, I believe it’s essential to hold onto our cultural identities with pride. ‘Ephemeral Narratives’ is an invitation to celebrate the beauty and uniqueness of Nigerian culture and to recognize the importance of preserving our cultural heritage for future generations,” Klaranze Okhide commented.

Words/Ireho Aito/Don’t Keep Your Art in the Finger!/Artworks/Images/credit/Klaranze Okhide