Nigerian Artist Nifemi Marcus-Bello | Open Source Design: Context & Intentionality in Africa

Lagos-based industrial designer and artist Nifemi Marcus-Bello has brought his solo exhibition, “Material Affirmations – ORÍKÌ Acts I–III,” home, following a successful tour across the world. The show also proves to be a hometown favorite and has recently been extended for one week until January 17th, due to popular demand.

Revolving around material and identity, “Oríkì” is a look at the past, present, and future through an exploration of bronze, aluminum, and copper. Named after a practice of praise poetry in the Yoruba culture, the show is a labor of love that took Nifemi around three-and-a-half years to complete.

Coming back to Nigeria is a full circle moment for Nifemi, who draws from African traditions and finds his inspiration in his family. Speaking with Globetrotter Lab’s Kennedy Ashinze, Nifemi shares his views on the art landscape in Nigeria, his vision for open-source design, and more.