Chika Idu, a Delta State-born contemporary Nigerian artist with over two decades of studio practice, is currently showcasing his solo exhibition 'Pure Water' at ARAMI, 6th & 7th Floor, MHQ Building, 5 Providence Street, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos. The exhibition, presented by SMO Contemporary Art, opened on September 5, 2026, and will run until November 30, 2026, featuring paintings and portraits that interrogate ecology, migration, and social justice through the lens of African women and children.
Idu, a multi-media artist known for his experimental approach, employs a unique technique involving exhaustive canvas priming and a 'light against visual distortion' method, characterized by heavy textures and hazy renditions. His works, sought after by collectors and institutions globally, blend figurative storytelling with environmental advocacy, reflecting his commitment to themes such as social justice for women and children, peace with nature, and ecological awareness.
The exhibition's title, 'Pure Water,' references both the environmental crisis of plastic sachet pollution in Nigerian cities and the metaphorical pursuit of a balanced world. Idu's submerged figures, swimming in a pristine underwater realm, contrast with the polluted realities of urban and coastal communities, symbolizing the struggle for 'pure waters' and freedom. The works also draw on Idu's reflections on colonial histories and global migration, as seen in his references to the island of Martinique and the legacy of the transatlantic slave trade.
Frank A.O Ugiomoh, a retired professor from the University of Port Harcourt, highlighted the layered narratives in Idu's work, noting that the artist's figures—whether from the slave trade, modern migrants, or his own subjects—represent an ongoing story of displacement and the search for liberty. 'Memory shapes how viewers see the present and imagine the future,' Ugiomoh observed, emphasizing the interplay between art, history, and environmental consciousness.
Diana Nwandu, director of ARAMI, described the exhibition as a celebration of nature aligned with the venue's commitment to sustainability. Sandra Mbanefo Obiago, founder of SMO Contemporary Art, emphasized the exhibition's dual focus on artistic immersion and environmental advocacy, stating that 'art brings hope and inspiration while reminding us of humanity's plight.'
Idu's 'Pure Water' includes a multimedia component, 'From Shore to Studio,' a short film documenting his exploration of coastal life and creative process. The exhibition also features oil and acrylic paintings, watercolors, and impasto techniques that capture light and movement, with figures exuding confidence and a sense of adventure. Idu's works, which have previously been displayed at ARAMI's 'Celebration' exhibition, reflect his mastery and dedication to his craft over two decades.
The exhibition remains open until November 30, 2026, inviting the public to engage with Idu's vision at ARAMI, a fine dining restaurant that merges art and culinary experiences. SMO Contemporary Art and ARAMI encourage visitors to explore the intersection of creativity, environmental advocacy, and cultural storytelling through Idu's 'Pure Water' collection.
Idu's career, marked by mentorship and innovation, underscores his influence in the Nigerian art scene. His ability to weave personal and historical narratives into his work positions 'Pure Water' as a critical commentary on contemporary issues, urging viewers to reflect on the relationship between humanity and the natural world.