Uzo Egonu (1931–1996) was a Nigerian artist born in Onitsha, Nigeria. In 1945, at the age of 13, he moved to the United Kingdom to pursue his education. He studied at the Camberwell School of Art in London, where he was influenced by both European modernism and his African heritage. Egonu traveled and exhibited extensively throughout Europe, using his art to navigate the intersection of African and Western cultures. His work was widely showcased in solo and group exhibitions, including the Commonwealth Institute in London, the Royal Academy, and across Europe, Africa, and the United States.
Egonu’s paintings, prints, and etchings often explored themes of identity, migration, and his Nigerian roots. His works are celebrated for their bold use of color, intricate patterns, and fluid lines, blending African motifs with modernist techniques. Over his career, Egonu became a prominent figure in modern African art, and his work remains influential in the global art community.
Hourglass Gallery will be exhibiting Uzo Egonu’s etchings from the 28th of October to the 10th of November, 2024.