Peter Uka

Peter Uka (b. 1975, Nigeria; lives and works in Cologne, Germany) devises figurative paintings which draw from his childhood memories of Nigeria. With a classical training in realistic figuration Uka combines various image references of time specific objects with images from his memory to convey innate and timeless human emotion. 

Scenes of growing up in Nigeria, including elements like afro hairstyles and bell-bottom jeans, bright mannerisms, and local customs are captured in vibrant, visual narrative.  His compositions also capture international trends from the late 20th century and the ways globalization connects countries around the world. These narratives uncover historical precedents of globalization and dynamic cultural signifiers connecting two countries that Uka calls home, while reminding the rest of the world of collective reciprocity, closeness, and connection.  

Uka completed his studies in 2017 at the  Kunstakademie in Düsseldorf (Germany) and has exhibited at the National Museum Onikan (Lagos, Nigeria), Haus der Kunst (Munich, Germany),  Kunsthaus  Mettman (Germany) and DIDI Museum (Lagos, Nigeria). His work is included in collections such as the Flag Art Foundation, CCS Bard Hessel Museum of Art, the Long Museum and has recently entered the permanent collection of K20 Düsseldorf Kunstsammlung.