Recognising the Giant Strides of African Art Icon, Ben Enwonwu. A photograph of Ben Enwonwu (1917-1994) working on a bronze sculpture in his studio. Enwonwu was a pioneer of African modernism and is arguably regarded as the most influential African artist of the 20th century. He was a painter and sculptor. As a pioneer of African modernism, he engaged with the international art world, studying modern European art movements such as Symbolism and Fauvism. Upon his return to Nigeria in 1948, he was appointed Artist Adviser to the Federal Government. In the 1950
The Ben Enwonwu Foundation (BEF) preserves the legacy of Nigerian artist Ben Enwonwu, promoting African art through exhibitions, scholarships & educational programs. Celebrating his modern style and cultural themes.