Chris Ofili
Nigeria/UK | Painting, Drawing, Collage
Vibrant, layered works often using unconventional materials, exploring Black identity and spirituality.
Exhibitions
Chris Ofili: The Upper Room
2002 - Victoria Miro Gallery, London, UK
A significant solo exhibition featuring a series of 13 paintings of rhesus macaque monkeys, displayed in a specially constructed, chapel-like space, which became one of Ofili's most iconic works, exploring themes of spirituality and ritual.
Sensation: Young British Artists from the Saatchi Collection
1997 - Royal Academy of Arts, London, UK
A landmark exhibition where Ofili gained international fame, particularly for his controversial work "The Holy Virgin Mary," which used elephant dung, glitter, and collage to challenge perceptions of race, religion, and art.
Chris Ofili: Afro Muses 1995-2005
2005 - The Studio Museum in Harlem, New York, USA
This solo exhibition showcased Ofili's series of portraits celebrating Black identity, featuring colorful and intricately patterned works that reflect his exploration of African and Caribbean heritage.
Chris Ofili: Night and Day
2015 - New Museum, New York, USA
A major retrospective that spanned Ofili's career, featuring paintings, drawings, and sculptures that explore themes of identity, mythology, and the intersection of contemporary and traditional cultures.
The British Pavilion
2003 - Venice Biennale, Venice, Italy
Ofili represented the UK at the Venice Biennale, where he exhibited works that combined his signature use of vibrant colors, elephant dung, and intricate patterns, further establishing his reputation on the international art scene.
Chris Ofili: Weaving Magic
2017 - National Gallery, London, UK
A solo exhibition featuring a large-scale tapestry designed by Ofili, which was inspired by classical mythology and the magic of storytelling, blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary themes.