Tonye Ekine is a storyteller who uses the Ife bronze mask- the ancient artworks created by the Yoruba people in the city of Ife, Nigeria, between the 12th and 15th centuries, as a lens to explore modern social issues in a postcolonial world.
His work creates immersive and surreal scenes filled with paradoxes that challenge the viewer. Through his art, Tonye examines the concept of identity, highlighting how we often hide our true selves behind figurative masks in daily life. His thought-provoking pieces spark conversations about authenticity and the layers of humanity that lie beneath the surface. He sets the stage, inviting the public to engage both as observers and participants, encouraging them to interpret the meaning of his work like players in a game.
A graduate of Camberwell College of Arts, Tonye now works out of his London studio, primarily using acrylics to further develop his artistic practice. Whilst at The Art House he will be developing his printing practice in TAH’s accessible Print Studio as well as ceramics for the very first time! Take a look at what Tonye got up to on the first part of his residency over on Instagram.
Find out more about Tonye Ekine’s practice here.
