Victor Anachuna

About Me

Victor Anachuna

Artist Biography

Victor Chigozie Anachuna is an emerging contemporary artist, born in 2001, he hails from Anambra, and is based in Lagos, Nigeria. He obtained his bachelor's degree in Visual Arts at the University of Lagos, Nigeria.

As a versatile realist painter, he employs acrylic on canvas to depict striking figures with a sense of poise. Drawing inspiration from the dynamic nature of human identity, he explores the nuanced ways in which individuals navigate an increasingly complex society.

His current body of work aims to highlight the diverse experiences of people outside the cultural norm, and express the need for a society that questions the social constructs guiding it, and how they affect the marginalized and underrepresented.

His works have been featured in exhibitions within Nigeria, including “Revelation” Group exhibition, MAD House, Lagos, “Genesis” Group exhibition at Lagoon Gallery, Lagos, as well as “Arts in Medicine” project, NAHW, Nigeria. He was also a coordinator for the Yusuf Grillo 2021 memorial collage at the Yaba College of Technology, Lagos.

Artist Statement

As a Nigerian contemporary painter, my work serves as a medium for social commentary through which I explore themes of oppression, inequality, and the human condition, often reflecting my personal experiences as a Nigerian youth. With a focus on marginalized voices and those outside the rigid confines of societal norms, my work seeks to present narratives that challenge the status quo.

My paintings are characterized by the use of realism to portray black figures in compositions and colour palettes that can be said to be reminiscent of the Renaissance era. My work employs a technique that carries a sense of elegance while underscoring the gravity of the narratives I explore. I draw inspiration from both classical and contemporary artists. Pieter Bruegel's satirical exploration of human behaviour has influenced my approach to representing societal contradictions. The raw and captivating depictions of black diversity and women empowerment by Nigerian artist, Chigozie Obi have shaped my view of art's role in elevating marginalized voices. I am also inspired by the artistic expression of Damilola Opedun and his influence on the contemporary Black art movement in Nigeria.

Through my paintings, I invite viewers to step outside their comfort zones and confront uncomfortable realities. Most importantly, my work aims to celebrate the beauty of diverse identities.

Notable Exhibitions
  • "Only Human" Solo Exhibition, Curtiss Jacobs Gallery, New York, 2025
  • "SOGAL Auction", Signature Gallery, Lagos, 2023
  • "Revelation" Group Exhibition, MADHouse, Lagos, 2023
  • "Arts in Medicine" project, NAHW, Nigeria, 2022
  • "Yusuf Grillo Memorial Exhibition" YABATECH, Lagos, 2021
  • "Genesis" Group Exhibition, Lagoon Gallery, Lagos, 2019
Notable Collections
  • Curtiss Jacobs Gallery Collection, New York, USA
  • Bayo Omoboriowo (MAD House) Private Collection, Lagos, Nigeria
  • UNILAG Private Collection, Lagos, Nigeria
  • Ogrikan Art Gallery Collection, Lagos, Nigeria
  • Rollings Global Private Collection, Lagos, Nigeria
  • Femi Oluf Private Collection, Dubai, UAE
References

Curtiss Jacobs

Gallery Owner, Curtiss Jacobs Gallery

+1 (646) 522-3100

cj@curtissjacobsgallery.com

Bolaji Ogunwo PhD

Art Professor, University of Lagos, Nigeria

+234 802 356 7468

bogunwo@unilag.edu.ng