Nengi Omuku (born August 9, 1987 in Warri, Nigeria) is a Nigerian creative artist, sculptor and painter.[1][2][3] Omuku is a visual artist known for her expressive paintings that explore themes of identity, mental journeying, and mutual belonging. Her work often features abstracted figures set against vibrant, celestial landscapes, drawing inspiration from the natural world and creationism. Omuku currently lives and works between Lagos, Nigeria, and London, UK. [4]
Early life and education
Born in Asaba, Delta State, Nigeria, Omuku spent her childhood in Nigeria, where she developed an interest in art from a young age. Her mother worked as a florist and horticulturist, which informed Omuku's later art.[5][6][7]
At 16, she moved to England to pursue her A-level studies, marking the beginning of her formal education in the arts. The transition from Nigeria to the UK introduced her to new cultural influences, which, combined with her early experiences in Nigeria, contributed to the fluid, expressive style that characterizes her work. Omuku studied both her B.A. and M.A in Fine art at the Slade School of Fine Art, University College London.[8][4][9]
Work
Themes
Nengi Omuku's work explores themes of identity, transformation, displacement, and collective experience. Her paintings often depict fluid, ethereal figures set against dreamlike landscapes, reflecting notions of psychological and emotional states. A central aspect of her practice is the concept of mutual belonging, where she investigates the ways in which people navigate personal and shared histories. Drawing from her experiences of living between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, Omuku frequently addresses themes of migration and the fluidity of selfhood.[10]
Her work is also deeply influenced by mental health and the inner workings of the human mind. She has referenced the psychological impact of space, memory, and trauma, incorporating elements of abstraction to evoke shifting realities. Additionally, Omuku integrates textiles—particularly handwoven Nigerian fabrics—into her paintings, merging traditional materials with contemporary artistic expression. This use of fabric serves as a metaphor for cultural heritage and transformation, reinforcing the themes of movement and adaptation that define her body of work.[11]
Notable works
I can't feel my legs, March 2012, oil on canvas, 220 x 160 cm.
Botticelli, April 2012, oil on canvas, 100 x 140 cm.
Room with a view, 2020, oil on sanyan 130 x 190 cm[13]
What was lost, 2020, oil on sanyan 208 x 243 cm[14]
Awards
Nengi Omuku's artistic work has won her scholarships and awards, including the British Council CHOGM art award presented by Her majesty Queen Elizabeth II.[15][16][17]
2012 Prankerd Jones Memorial Prize Awarded by University College London
2011 Nancy Balfour MA Scholarship Awarded by University College London
2003 Winner- British Council CHOGM art competition Awarded by Queen Elisabeth II
