NIGERIAN artist-designer Demas Nwoko has been awarded the prestigious Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement at the 18th International Architecture Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia, cementing his status as a pioneer in Nigeria’s modern art movement. This year, the Venice Biennale has placed a strong emphasis on showcasing African talent, and Nwoko’s recognition is a testament to his remarkable contributions to the field of architecture.
Known for his diverse skill set as an architect, painter, sculptor, and designer, Nwoko has consistently pushed boundaries by incorporating traditional African construction techniques into innovative architectural designs. Despite lacking formal training, his work has garnered acclaim for its unique approach and ability to adapt to tropical climates while emphasising sustainability principles long before they gained widespread recognition.
In describing his multidisciplinary approach, Nwoko modestly refers to himself as an ‘artist-designer.’ Born in 1935 in southern Nigeria, he drew inspiration from his grandfather’s intricately designed palace, which fuelled his passion for architecture from an early age. Throughout the 1970s, Nwoko pioneered a syncretic approach, blending elements of Igbo architecture from Nigeria with Japanese construction techniques, resulting in truly captivating and culturally rich structures.
The decision to honour Nwoko with the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement was made based on the recommendation of exhibition curator Lesley Lokko, a Ghanaian-Scottish architect and university lecturer, and approved by La Biennale’s Board of Directors chaired by Roberto Cicutto. Lokko, who curated the central exhibition of the Biennale, praised Nwoko’s diverse talents and contributions to various artistic fields.
‘One of the central themes of the 18th International Architecture Exhibition is an approach to architecture as an “expanded” field of endeavour, encompassing both the material and immaterial worlds,’ explained Lokko. ‘Baba Demas Nwoko is everything all at once: an architect, sculptor, designer, writer, set designer, critic, and historian.’
Lokko also shed light on the limitations of traditional architectural classifications and the importance of recognising Nwoko’s wide-ranging abilities. By referring to himself as an ‘artist-designer,’ Nwoko challenges the conventional understanding of the term ‘architect’ and highlights the need for a broader appreciation of artistic diversity.
The Venice Architecture Biennale’s focus on Africa is particularly noteworthy, as it marks the first time the event has been curated by an African woman. Lesley Lokko has curated a central exhibition that includes 55 practices from around the world, with a strong representation from Africa and the African diaspora. Running until November 26, 2023, the Biennale provides a platform for architects from across the globe to convene in the historic Arsenale, the former shipyard and naval base of the Republic of Venice, housed within its old brick halls.
Demas Nwoko’s recognition at the Venice Biennale serves as a celebration of his lifetime achievements and an acknowledgment of the African influence in the field of architecture. With his innovative approach and commitment to cultural preservation, Nwoko continues to inspire future generations of architects and designers alike.
