Modupeola Fadugba, a Nigerian multi-media artist, has been awarded the grand prize at the Norval Sovereign African Art Prize 2025 hosted by Norval Foundation in Cape Town. This significant recognition underscores Fadugba’s exceptional talent and the profound impact of her captivating artwork, “Portrait of an Artist at Ease”.
“Portrait of an Artist at Ease”, the winning piece, is an artwork that delves into Fadugba’s milestones and the journey of artistic self-discovery and mastery. The artwork features a striking interplay of dark and golden hues, with the artist emerging from a black background, the PIJAlance learnt in a press release.
The Norval Foundation recognises Fadugba for her work, which captures a moment of tranquility and invites viewers to reflect on the complexities of the artistic journey. Critics have praised the piece for its innovative use of colour and form and its ability to convey deep emotional resonance.
The announcement of the winner has generated excitement within the art community, as it not only honours individual talent but also promotes the importance of African art on the global stage.
The South Africa-based Norval Sovereign African Art Prize continues to play a vital role in nurturing and showcasing the remarkable voices of African artists, ensuring their stories and perspectives are celebrated worldwide.
The award recipient, Fadugba, is a Nigerian artist whose practice painting drawing and socially engaged installation with a background in engineering, economics and education.
Fadugba’s work exists all the nuances of science, politics and art. Her art explores cultural identity, social justice, game theory and the art world within the socio-political landscape of Nigeria and our great global economy.
Read Also: How Undergraduate Founder Takes Creative Art by Storm
Tomiwa Obisesan
Tomiwa is a journalist, interning with the PIJAlance Magazine. He describes himself as someone who believes in all religions.