Sejiro Avoseh: A Voice From Nigeria Through Assemblage

Sejiro Avoseh (born 1990) occupies a prominent position within the landscape of contemporary Nigerian art, establishing himself as an innovator who skillfully merges abstract human figures with repurposed automotive components—a striking juxtaposition that powerfully communicates social critique and artistic ingenuity. Based in Essex, United Kingdom, Avoseh’s oeuvre transcends mere visual representation; it constitutes an urgent interrogation of challenges confronting his homeland and serves as a testament to the transformative potential inherent in collage techniques. His artistic trajectory commenced with formal training at Lagos State Polytechnic, culminating in a Higher National Diploma in Creative Arts. Subsequently, he pursued postgraduate studies at the University for the Creative Arts in Canterbury, Kent, England, refining his artistic skillset through immersive engagement with painting and mixed media methodologies. This dual academic grounding furnishes an invaluable foundation for comprehending Avoseh’s overarching artistic vision—a vision rooted in both tradition and experimentation. Early Influences: Avoseh's fascination with assemblage originated during his formative years, absorbing inspiration from Dadaist and Surrealist movements – artists who bravely defied conventions by deploying unorthodox materials and processes. These influences permeate his artistic practice, prioritizing conceptual depth over superficial aesthetic considerations. The rebellious spirit of these pioneers resonates within Avoseh’s approach to crafting art, urging him to challenge accepted norms and explore uncharted territories. Technique & Material Exploration: Avoseh's distinctive stylistic hallmark resides in meticulously constructed montages—complex compositions painstakingly assembled from fragments of magazines and newspapers. With unwavering precision, he selects images – frequently depicting human forms – and integrates them seamlessly with discarded automotive parts, resulting in textured surfaces imbued with layered narratives. This deliberate incorporation of found objects elevates the artwork beyond a simple depiction, transforming it into an investigation into materiality itself—its symbolic resonance and its capacity to convey profound meaning. The artist meticulously considers how each element contributes to the overall message, mirroring his own engagement with the world around him. Themes & Conceptual Concerns: At the core of Avoseh’s artistic output lies a deep commitment to confronting social justice issues endemic to Nigeria. His artworks unflinchingly confront corruption, inequity, and abuses perpetrated by governmental authorities—subjects tackled with uncompromising honesty and artistic sensitivity. Through his visual language, he strives to provoke critical reflection and inspire constructive action – advocating for societal reform and challenging entrenched power structures. He seeks to amplify voices marginalized by systemic injustices, reflecting a broader concern for human dignity and social responsibility. Recognition & Critical Acclaim: Avoseh’s work garnered considerable recognition from the Financial Times in 2018 as one of Nigeria's most promising artists—a distinction that underscores the burgeoning appreciation for experimental art forms originating within Africa. This acknowledgment validates his dedication to pushing artistic boundaries and engaging with pressing social issues through innovative visual expression. Furthermore, Avoseh’s pieces are currently showcased on WahooArt.com and other platforms, offering visitors a comprehensive understanding of his artistic trajectory and creative ethos. His work has been featured in publications such as Le Monde, Google Arts & Culture, Daily Trust, WhiteWalls, The Sole Adventurer, Flux Review, and Whitehot Magazine—establishing him as a significant voice within the global contemporary art dialogue.

His series of portraits “Hungry and Angry” directly addresses the prevailing political climate in Nigeria. Prior to the October demonstrations and subsequent retaliatory actions, Avoseh envisioned this series with meticulous consideration – reflecting his profound engagement with societal concerns. It embodies a courageous assertion against abyssal inequalities and represents an earnest struggle for greater liberty and social advancement—a testament to the enduring human desire for justice and transformative change.

Avoseh completed his Higher National Diploma in Painting at Lagos State Polytechnic, Lagos, Nigeria in 2013. Since then, he collaborated with international doll- maker Aidamaris Roman on her “Forgotten Heart” series. In 2018, he was listed as one of “18 Nigerian young visual artists under 30 to follow” by art critic and author Jess Castellote.

His work has been exhibited internationally, including at Kravets Wehby Gallery (New York), Afikaris Gallery (Paris), and Jupiter Contemporary (Miami).