From September 4 through October 24, 2024, Kasmin Gallery will host Nengi Omuku‘s first solo exhibition in New York at its 509 West 27th Street location. Titled “Wild Things and Perennials,” the exhibition features a new body of eight captivating oil paintings on sanyan, a traditional Nigerian textile, bringing together Omuku’s unique artistic vision with the cultural heritage of her home country.

Omuku’s practice is rooted in the exploration of the delicate balance between interior and exterior spaces, as well as the interaction between figure and ground. Her impressionistic canvases and richly hued palettes create enveloping environments that serve as stages for her loosely rendered individual and group portraits. In “Wild Things and Perennials,” Omuku delves into themes of refuge and stillness, drawing from personal narratives and her experiences in Lagos, London, New York, and during her residency at Civitella Ranieri in Italy.

A highlight of the exhibition is her piece “Small Groups, 2024,” a large oil painting on sanyan measuring 84 5/8 x 90 1/2 inches. The work, like many others in the show, demonstrates Omuku’s masterful ability to blur the boundaries between foreground and background, creating a sense of fluidity and interconnectedness between the figures and their surroundings. The use of sanyan, a handwoven fabric made from wild silk and cotton, adds a layer of cultural significance to her work, grounding her contemporary explorations in tradition.

Omuku’s perennials—depictions of plants, flowers, and vibrant skies—act as symbols of endurance and continuity throughout her work. These motifs reflect her observations of the world around her and her deep connection to nature, while also symbolizing the strength and resilience of her community. The painting “Orange Bougainvillea, 2024,” with its striking palette and intricate detail, exemplifies this connection, offering a visual feast that is both captivating and thought-provoking.

This exhibition coincides with Omuku’s ongoing solo museum presentation, “The Dance of the People and the Natural World,” at Arnolfini in Bristol, United Kingdom. Her distinctive visual language and her ability to weave together themes of identity, resilience, and the human experience have earned her growing recognition on the international art scene.

Nengi Omuku’s work continues to capture the attention of global audiences, as evidenced by her participation in notable exhibitions such as “Aso Oke: Prestige Cloth from Nigeria” at the Saint Louis Art Museum in Missouri, and “Rites of Passage” at Gagosian in London. Her recent recognition includes the prestigious Civitella Ranieri Residency in Italy and the Black Rock Senegal residency. Omuku’s art is also held in various international collections, including the Baltimore Museum of Art, Institute of Contemporary Art in Miami, and the Loewe Art Collection.

Exhibition Details:

• Exhibition Title: Wild Things and Perennials
• Artist: Nengi Omuku
• Gallery: Kasmin Gallery
• Dates: September 4 – October 24, 2024
• Location: 509 West 27th Street, New York City

About Nengi Omuku:

Nengi Omuku is an acclaimed artist who divides her time between Lagos, Nigeria, and London, United Kingdom. She earned widespread recognition for her solo institutional exhibition, “The Dance of the People and the Natural World,” at Hastings Contemporary in the UK. Omuku has participated in numerous prestigious exhibitions, including the Bangkok Art Biennale and “Dissolving Realms,” curated by Katy Hessel at Kasmin. Her work has also been featured in prominent collections around the world, reflecting her growing influence in contemporary art.

Omuku’s accolades include the British Council CHOGM Art Award, presented by HM Queen Elizabeth II, and several scholarships and awards that further highlight her contributions to the art world. Her artistic journey continues to evolve, with a focus on exploring identity, resilience, and the connections between people and their environments.

“Wild Things and Perennials” at Kasmin Gallery offers a rare opportunity to experience the depth and beauty of Nengi Omuku’s work in New York City. Through her vibrant oil paintings on sanyan, she invites viewers to contemplate the enduring connections between nature, community, and the self.