Kainebi Osahenye standing in front of Peju Alatise’s public art installation. Photo: Instagram

Artcentron celebrates Kainebi Osahenye, Nigeria’s top contemporary artist, recognized for his technical brilliance and thought-provoking art on societal issues.

BY KAZEEM ADELEKE, ARTCENTRON

When Kainebi Osahenye held his inaugural major art exhibition following his graduation from Auchi, art critics swiftly recognized his exceptional talent. Beyond his captivating charm, confidence, and disarming smile, it became evident that he was an artist of considerable promise. In a period when many of his contemporaries focused on painting landscapes and figurative works, he boldly embraced abstraction. His brushstrokes were dynamic, forceful, and unapologetic, even when they conveyed distinct forms. Reflecting his vigorous brushwork, Osahenye’s colors were rich, vivid, and robust—bold and expressive. In some respects, his approach can be likened to fauvism. Like the fauvist pioneers Henri Matisse and André Derain, Kainebi, as he is fondly called, sought to transcend traditional representational art, exemplifying a daring spirit.

More than three decades later, Kainebi continues to exhibit the same adventurous and audacious qualities in his works. That is why he is widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s leading contemporary artists. His profound engagement with social, environmental, and spiritual issues has also earned him international acclaim. Known for his technical mastery and innovative use of unconventional materials, Osahenye’s work has left an indelible mark on both African and global art. As he celebrates his 60th birthday, it is an opportune moment to reflect on his artistic contributions and lasting legacy.

About Kainebi Osahenye

Born in 1964 in Agbor, Delta State, Kainebi Osahenye’s formal journey into art began at Auchi Polytechnic, where his passion for creativity was ignited. He later pursued a degree in painting from Yaba College of Technology, graduating in 1989. This foundational education exposed Kainebi to a diverse range of artistic techniques and media, fostering his ability to merge traditional and contemporary styles.

In 2012, he broadened his academic scope by obtaining a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) from Goldsmiths, University of London. This global exposure introduced him to avant-garde practices, contributing to his transition from traditional painting to multimedia installations. His educational background underscores his dual engagement with Nigerian and international art, a distinguishing feature of his work.

Artistic Development and Technical Innovation

Kainebi’s artistic journey began with large-scale neo-expressionist paintings, characterized by vivid colors and intense emotion. However, his practice evolved as he gravitated toward using found materials, such as discarded water bottles, newspapers, and crushed cans, for social commentary. This shift represented not just a change in technique but a thematic exploration of consumerism, environmental degradation, and human identity.

His meticulous technique involves layering thousands of discarded materials to create monumental installations. This unique approach has earned him widespread recognition. By transforming everyday waste into art, Kainebi Osahenye critiques modern wastefulness while simultaneously elevating these items into profound artistic expressions.

Key Exhibitions and Residencies

OKainebi’s works have been in numerous prestigious exhibitions and art fairs, highlighting his global influence. Among his notable exhibitions are All is Not Lost at the National Museum, Lagos (2022) and Escapism, Art Pantheon, Lagos (2021). Others include 1.54 Art Fair in London (2018), ArtXLagos in Lagos (2016, 2017, 2019), and Biennale Jogja, Indonesia (2015).

In addition to these exhibitions, Kainebi has participated in prominent artist residencies. They include the Vermont Studio Center and the School of Visual Arts in New York. These residencies further enriched his practice, allowing him to incorporate diverse perspectives into his evolving body of work.

Transformative Use of Found Materials

A defining characteristic of Kainebi’s work is his transformative use of discarded materials, which he converts into artistic reflections on societal and environmental concerns. His installations, composed of items like beer cans and water bottles, prompt audiences to question their relationship with consumerism and waste.

Kainebi’s work often explores the intersection of existential themes with playful yet poignant commentary on society. His exhibition Trash-ing exemplified this evolution, moving from traditional painting to conceptual installations. This show utilized mixed media to reflect on themes of waste and human neglect, drawing attention to global issues through a localized lens.

One of his most ambitious pieces, Casualty, was created in 2009. It consists of thousands of beer cans, representing not just recycling but the harsh realities of war and displacement. This work underscores Kainebi’s ability to provoke thought and evoke emotion through everyday materials. This innovative reuse of materials positions him as a thought leader in contemporary art, particularly in conversations surrounding environmental sustainability and global waste.

Exploration of Identity, Spirituality, and Environmentalism

Kainebi’s work extends beyond environmental concerns to explore themes of identity, spirituality, and the impact of globalization. His Eye Series reflects on perception and identity in a globally interconnected world. Through these installations, he addresses the tensions between materialism and spirituality, encouraging viewers to contemplate deeper existential questions.

His 2014 installation Redemption integrates photography and recycled materials, presenting a meditation on human values and the contradictions of modern life. This work emphasizes the duality of material excess and spiritual depth, inviting reflection on both personal and societal levels.

International Recognition and Critical Reception

Kainebi’s contributions to contemporary art have received widespread recognition. His work appears in academic publications. These include Contemporary African Art Since 1980 by Okwui Enwezor and Chika Okeke-Agulu. He has also featured in major auctions at Bonhams and Phillips de Pury, affirming his significance on the global art stage.

As Kainebi Osahenye celebrates his 60th birthday, his legacy as a trailblazer in African contemporary art is firmly established. His ability to transform discarded materials into thought-provoking works reflects both his technical skill and his commitment to addressing critical societal issues. Kainebi’s work transcends conventional artistic boundaries, engaging with discourses on environmentalism, identity, and spirituality. His innovative approach and socially conscious art will undoubtedly inspire future generations of artists, ensuring his influence continues for years to come.

Kainebi Osahenye: Into the Future

Kainebi Osahenye’s journey in contemporary art highlights his ability to blend technical expertise with a deep commitment to social and environmental themes. As he reaches this milestone birthday, his influence in both Nigerian and global art remains profound. His work will continue to provoke thought and inspire critical engagement with the world around us.