Bibianna Artist Spotlight: Agboola Emmanuel

Celebrating Culture, Colour and Social Commentary through Contemporary African Art

Bibianna Gallery is proud to spotlight one of our foundational artists, Agboola Emmanuel a Nigerian painter who is an emerging talent and his bold use of colour, emotional depth, and dedication to storytelling are making waves in the Nigerian contemporary art scene. From the very beginning of Bibianna’s journey, Emmanuel’s work has set the tone for our commitment to showcasing talent that challenges, uplifts, and inspires.

So, it’s no surprise that his striking 2024 painting “Afro Beautiful” has just been selected as the lead marketing image for Manchester Art Fair 2025:

As well as featuring in the marketing communications for the prestigious fair, this piece will be showcased prominently at the entrance of the fair, with Bibianna being Stand 502, one of the most prominent locations.

The Work of Agboola Emmanuel

Born in Osun State, Nigeria, Emmanuel grew up surrounded by a rich tradition of craftsmanship and cultural storytelling. His journey into the art world began early and took root at Ibadan Polytechnic, where he formally studied Fine Art. This academic grounding gave him a deep understanding of technique and form, but it is his passion and empathy that truly define his visual language.

Working primarily in acrylic and impasto, Emmanuel builds his paintings layer by layer, often using bold brushwork, thick texture, and vibrant colour palettes to evoke both beauty and meaning. His subjects, typically Black figures captured in quiet strength or reflective pause, serve as conduits for wider conversations around identity, resilience, and the social realities of contemporary Africa.

One of the hallmarks of Emmanuel’s style is the tension between serenity and strength. Whether portraying contemplative stares or subtle gestures, each piece captures more than likeness, it conveys emotion, spirit, and history.

New Emmanuel Art Pieces for Bibianna Gallery

We are delighted to receive several new pieces from Emmanuel, with his latest inspiration and styles...

"Ethereal" 2025, 91cm x 91cm  

"Manifest" 2025, 132cm x 101cm

Explore Bibianna's collection of Emmanuel paintings available for purchase here

More Than the Canvas: Agboola’s Commitment to Social Impact

Agboola Emmanuel’s art is not just visual—it is visionary. His work regularly explores themes such as resilience, hope, and the impact of socio-economic challenges on individuals and communities. And he doesn’t stop at representation.

He is deeply involved in philanthropic initiatives, using his skills to make tangible change through programs such as Chess N Slum and Slum2School. These initiatives bring creative and educational opportunities to underserved youth in Nigeria, and Emmanuel’s commitment to these causes mirrors the very themes he paints.

This integration of community engagement and visual storytelling makes Emmanuel’s work even more powerful. He reminds us that art can be both personal and political, aesthetic and transformative.

Selected Past Exhibitions:

• LIMCAF 2023
• Atmosphere
• Manchester Art Fair 2024

A Testament to Talent

The selection of “Afro Beautiful” as the face of Manchester Art Fair 2025 is a ringing endorsement, not only for Emmanuel and Bibianna but for African art as a whole.

Manchester Art Fair is the largest in the UK outside of London and the 2025 edition takes place from 21–23 November at Manchester Central. Bibianna Gallery will be exhibiting at Stand 502 and alongside Emmanuel’s work, we’ll be showcasing pieces by fellow talents Olumide Ogunade, Prince Obasi, Kwesi Koo Nyarkoh, and Achike Anayo to name just a few.

In the Artist’s Words

"My art reflects my reality and my dreams. I want people to feel seen, to feel inspired. Art is a bridge, it connects our hearts and tells stories words often can’t."

Join Us at Manchester Art Fair 📍 Stand 502
📅 21–23 November 2025

Send us an email for a complimentary ticket (limited availability)