Rediscovering a Nigerian photography legend: Ojeikere’s archive revealed

A previously unseen trove of photographs by Nigerian photography legend J.D. ‘Okhai Ojeikere has been brought into the spotlight at ART X Lagos, marking a major celebration of his legacy. The exhibition, An Exacting Eye, showcased 150 images from his extensive archive, most never publicly displayed, and was accompanied by a masterclass led by his son, Amaize Ojeikere. Known for his sculptural portraits of women’s hairstyles, Ojeikere also documented Nigerian architecture, festivals, and daily life over six decades. Curators emphasized the poetic and meticulous quality of his work, which merges visual space with cultural storytelling. The event reconnects younger generations with Nigeria’s artistic heritage, ensuring that Ojeikere’s vast archive continues to inspire and educate future creatives.

CNN