John Madu

John Madu (b.1983) is a multidisciplinary artist born in Lagos, Nigeria. Through his figurative symbolic and portraiture paintings, he uses personal and recognisable iconography as metaphors and connects his thematic concerns with the aid of bold colours, textures and indigenous patterns. His work examines the complexity of identity, social behaviors and the effects of cultural globalisation on individualism.

John’s broad influences range from pop culture, art history, contemporary African lifestyle, music and his unique experiences. With a BSc in policy and strategic studies, his workflow includes research, idea development, exploring all possible concepts until it is innovative and ready for production. He believes in an African zeitgeist where new identities are shaped away from stereotypical standpoints and consequently creates a narrative of authenticity and representation through his wide array of mediums such as a acrylic, oil and spray paints, ink, burlap and collage. John’s subjects often appear enigmatic set against striking colored backgrounds and a backdrop of domesticity and leisure, usually situated within a broader, unfolding narrative.

Madu’s art has been featured both locally and internationally. Group shows include Next Wave: The Power of Authenticity and Self-Validation (2019), Hoxton Arches Gallery, London, Decemberfest (2019), One Artspace Gallery, New York, Forestation (2018), Didi Museum, Lagos. Solo exhibitions include Identity Tones (2018) Artyrama Gallery, Lagos, Only The Brave 1 (2017), Diesel Flagship Store, Lagos. In 2020, John will participate in the Tokyo Art Fair in Japan.

John currently lives and works in Lagos, Nigeria.