Imagine a treasure trove of unseen photographs, capturing the essence of Nigerian culture and identity, finally coming to light. This is the story of J.D. ‘Okhai Ojeikere, a legendary photographer whose work, while celebrated globally, remained underappreciated in his own homeland—until now.
Best known for his mesmerizing images of elaborate women’s hairstyles, which border on sculptural art, Ojeikere’s legacy has traveled the world. Yet, in a 2014 documentary, he shared a bittersweet truth: his art struggled to find recognition in Nigeria. But here’s where it gets hopeful—that narrative is shifting.
Recently, 150 photographs from his vast archive, most never before seen by the public, took center stage at ART X Lagos, one of Africa’s most prestigious art fairs. Titled An Exacting Eye, the exhibition, alongside a masterclass led by his son, Amaize Ojeikere, aimed to honor the life and work of this prolific documentary photographer.
These images are just a glimpse into Ojeikere’s expansive archive, which, according to Amaize, includes “thousands upon thousands of negatives.” Missla Libsekal, the exhibition’s curator, revealed the painstaking process of sifting through nearly 8,000 analog images—a fraction of the collection—over several months. “It required time and commitment,” she noted, highlighting the sheer scale of his work.
Libsekal described Ojeikere’s photography as poetic, emphasizing his unique ability to transform perception into art. “He understood visual space—whether indoors or outdoors—and how forms occupy it,” she explained. “His images don’t just capture beauty; they elevate it, keeping viewers engaged and in awe.”
As ART X Lagos celebrated its tenth anniversary, founder Tokini Peterside-Schwebig framed the exhibition as both a tribute and a reconnection. “It’s about ensuring our youth know the artists and educators who shaped our visual culture,” she said. The masterclass, in particular, aimed to bridge generations, allowing young artists to engage with Ojeikere’s techniques while understanding their cultural heritage. “I hope it reignites cultural pride, reflection, and recognition,” she added.
ART X Lagos has become a cornerstone of Nigeria’s art scene, drawing thousands of artists, galleries, and enthusiasts worldwide. This year, Peterside-Schwebig noted, the event expanded in scale and depth, offering a “richer, more layered experience” that balanced legacy with innovation. Initiatives like the masterclass underscored their commitment to nurturing younger generations.
Ojeikere, who passed away in 2014, spent over 60 years documenting Nigerian architecture, people, and culture. His most iconic work, the Hairstyles series, remains globally acclaimed. Yet, Libsekal pointed out the irony: while celebrated abroad, his work was often overlooked at home. The exhibition, she said, was a step toward “bringing his work home and rectifying that oversight.”
The showcase featured a diverse range of photographs, from his early career and festival shots to portraits and new additions to the Hairstyles series. It also included images of Lagos’ architecture, coastline, and port from the 1950s to 1970s, offering a glimpse into pre- and post-independence Nigeria.
Amaize Ojeikere, who led the masterclass, aimed to teach students not just about archiving but also about his father’s tenacity, originality, and work ethic. “Preserving the past is crucial,” he emphasized. “It allows future generations to learn from history, ensuring a better present and future.” He added, “My father’s style and impact were ahead of his time—there’s so much to learn from his legacy.”
With hundreds of thousands of photographs still in the archive, plans are underway to establish institutions that will make Ojeikere’s work accessible to a broader audience for years to come. “Not every piece may be released,” Amaize noted, “but the goal is to create a space where people can deeply research his style and contributions.”
And this is the part most people miss: Ojeikere’s work isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a cultural archive, a window into Nigeria’s past, and a challenge to how we value homegrown artistry. A selection of his pieces from the ART X Icon exhibition will be displayed at the Federal Palace Hotel lobby until the end of November, offering a final chance to immerse yourself in his visionary world.
But here’s the question: Why did it take so long for Nigeria to celebrate one of its own legends? And what does this say about how we honor our cultural pioneers? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s keep this conversation alive.
