AKHILE EHIFORIA (NIGERIAN, BORN 1975)

Akhile Ehiforia, born in 1975 in Benin City, is a standout figure among the new generation of Nigerian artists. His work, known for its focus on rural life's minimal pictorial imageries, often features dense arrangements of trees set against breathtaking landscapes, evoking nostalgia and a deep connection to his roots. His famous work, "A Road Not Taken" (2011), uses textures resembling tree bark and earthy tones to simulate sunlight filtering through branches, drawing inspiration from Robert Frost's poem of the same name.

Ehiforia’s education at Auchi Polytechnic in Edo State (2002-2005), where he earned both his OND and HND, deepened his appreciation for the natural and architectural elements of his surroundings. Currently residing in Lagos, his series of roofscape paintings explores both the unique architecture of rural Lagos and the traditional mound houses of his hometown, portraying them as beautiful, burgeoning ruins. Through his art, Ehiforia continues to capture the essence of his environments, making him a distinctive voice in contemporary Nigerian art.