Exploring Harmattan: Cultural Bridges from Nigeria to Graz

Last Thursday, a cross-cultural Harmattan Workshop exhibition, a colorful showcase of modern Nigerian art presented by the Kunst-und Keramikstudio Selma Etareri, opened at Mariahilferstraße 11, 8020 Graz.

This cross-cultural exhibition, which runs until May 31, has prints, drawings, paintings, and photographs by Nigerian artists from the world renowned Harmattan Workshop, created by iconic artist Dr. Bruce Onobrakpeya.

Selma Etareri, an Austrian-Nigerian ceramicist whose studio is hosting this important event, has also contributed some pieces.

The Bruce Onobrakpeya Foundation has hosted the Harmattan Workshop, a two-week artistic residency, in Agbarha-Otor, Delta State, every year since 1998. The Harmattan Workshop complex, designed by architect Demas Nwoko, provides a platform for rigorous artistic cooperation, experimentation, and cultural exchange.

The inaugural reception will take place on Thursday, April 24 at 7:00 PM, followed by live music from Irina Karamarkovi? (vocal) and Denovaire (esraj).

This show honors not only the strength of artistic collaboration, but also the ongoing conversation between African and European artistic traditions. It exemplifies the creative spirit that transcends borders and communicates in a universal language.

The exhibition provides visitors in Austria with a unique opportunity to see the dynamic energy and beautiful richness of Nigerian visual art. Artists featured include Bruce Onobrakpeya, Ato Arinze, Ojo Olaniyi, Moses Unokwah, Médjéva Ayeva, AnkelI Christopher, Imomoh E. Asemokha, Jefferson Jonahan, Oluwole Orowole, Olúbùnmi Até?ré, Ekeoma Yvonne-Mary, Akanimoh Umoh, Mamadou Ballo, Israel Ophori, Blessy Bassy, Ibrahim Keita, Yves Midahuen, Obani Babatunde, Sholanke Bol.