Exclusive Interview with Emmanuel Joshua Obile: Exploring Contemporary African Art, Identity, and Self-Discovery
by Queenswill Bestman Sep 17, 2024
In an insightful interview with Art.Africa, Emmanuel Joshua Obile, a rising star in Nigerian contemporary art, opens up about his journey as an artist, the inspirations behind his creative process, and his hopes for the future of African art. Originally from Nassarawa State, Nigeria, Obile’s art focuses on self-identity, cultural heritage, and personal growth, capturing the essence of African contemporary art. Obile’s passion for art began in secondary school, where his interest in drawing cartoons and animation ignited a deeper love for visual expression. His artistic path took a turning point during university after a visit to artist Unyime Edet’s home, where he connected emotionally with Edet’s painting. This encounter spurred his dedication to contemporary realism, marking the beginning of his journey into painting. Obile’s artistic process is closely connected to his environment and experiences. His creativity starts with an idea, often influenced by societal events and the music he listens to. “My creative process starts with ideation, drawing inspiration from societal events and the music I listen to,” he explains. Obile follows specific routines to stay focused, including listening to calming music, maintaining a clean workspace, taking naps, and going for walks outside his studio. A distinctive feature of Obile’s work is his prominent use of feathers, which carry significant personal and cultural meanings. “The use of feathers in my artwork stems from my exploration of self-identity,” says Obile. While feathers are traditionally seen as deterrents in African culture, he emphasizes their positive aspects, such as innocence, security, and spirituality. His “SELF” series integrates this symbolism, with feathers serving as metaphors for various themes. In his piece “SELF II,” Obile delves into self-discovery and introspection, urging viewers to embrace self-awareness and long-term goals rather than fleeting pleasures or external validation. Through this work, he hopes to inspire others on their personal journeys of growth and self-discipline. Deeply rooted in his Nigerian heritage, Obile draws from the traditional ways of life, particularly from the Eggon culture. His work “Atari” reflects this cultural influence, depicting a young woman dressed in traditional fabric. Each color of the Eggon attire—navy blue, black, green, red, and white—carries symbolic meaning, which Obile integrates into his artwork to express the richness of his cultural background. Several artists have influenced Obile’s approach to African contemporary art, including Unyime Edet, Emeka John Castro, and Opeyemi Olukotun. Their emphasis on conceptual art and cultural themes has shaped his vision. Looking ahead, Obile seeks to make art that resonates with global audiences while elevating the visibility of African art on the world stage. Excited about the future, Obile is keen to explore the intersection of African art and technology, including digital art and illustration. He envisions future collaborations and opportunities to broaden his artistic reach. His journey stands as a powerful example of personal growth and cultural expression, leaving a lasting mark on African contemporary art and its influence on the global art scene.
