The Rising

Etete Offiong is an African contemporary artist, born in Lagos, Nigeria, and now based in Los Angeles, with frequent work on the East Coast. His art is a vivid tapestry of color, mystery, and personal memory - inspired by his travels across the United States, Europe, and Africa. Etete’s diverse artistic sensibilities—ranging from abstract to figurative, still life to portrait—reflect his unique worldview.

Drawing from the rich imagery and culture of West Africa, Etete’s paintings are a celebration of color complexities and raw emotion. His use of vivid colors and the color field painting technique creates immersive environments that transcend style and subject matter. Etete’s work often features vibrant depictions of his childhood memories, such as Adire (tie and dye textiles), the dramatic gele (West African head scarf), and abstract representations of nature and musical instruments. Underlying these vibrant depictions are deeper themes of mortality, war, and faith, adding a layer of emotional complexity to his art.".

Etete employs both brushwork and palette knives to introduce texture and multidimensional elements, giving his paintings a sculptural quality. His artistic outlook was shaped by the vibrant commotion of Lagos and the lush beauty of Calabar, his Efik family’s ancestral home, known for its animated festivals. His canvases are a testament to the power of memory and experience. From the vibrant Adire textiles of his childhood to the dramatic gele hewn by his ancestors, Etete’s paintings evoke a sense of nostalgia and wonder. His exploration of themes like mortality, war, and faith adds a layer of depth and complexity to his work.

Etete’s use of color is bold and unapologetic. His palette knife strokes and textured brushwork create a tactile, almost sculptural quality to his paintings. Each piece is a visual feast, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in his unique worldview.

Etete has exhibited extensively in galleries, libraries, and private showings. He holds a degree in Business Administration and has applied his creativity in real estate development and interior design projects. Over the years, his passion for art has led him to focus more on painting, where he finds the most personal fulfillment.

Host or Publisher Deji Enwezor