Set against the backdrop of cultural and artistic rebellion, Nigerian Modernism celebrates the achievements of Nigerian artists working before and after the decade of national independence from British colonial rule in 1960.
Nigerian Modernism tells the story of artistic networks which spanned Zaria, Ibadan, Lagos and Enugu, as well as London, Munich and Paris. Through groups like the Zaria Art Society and Mbari Artists' and Writers' Club, they fused Nigerian, African and European techniques and traditions to create vibrant, multidimensional works.
Explore a diverse range of paintings, sculpture, textiles and poetry from over 50 artists including Uzo Egonu, El Anatsui, Ladi Kwali and Ben Enwonwu MBE.
Nigerian Modernism is in partnership with Access Holdings and Coronation Group. Supported by Ford Foundation, The A. G. Leventis Foundation and The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts. With additional support from the Nigerian Modernism Exhibition Supporters Circle, Tate International Council, Tate Patrons and Tate Americas Foundation.
Uzo Egonu Stateless People: an Artist with Beret 1981 Lent by Vikram Chellaram 2025 © The estate of Uzo Egonu
J.D. Okhai Ojeikere Untitled (Onile Gogoro Or Akaba) 1975, printed 2012 Tate Purchased with funds provided by the Acquisitions Fund for African Art Supported by Guaranty Trust Bank Plc 2013
Benedict Enwonwu The Dancer 1962 Lent by Ben Uri Gallery and Museum 2025 © The Ben Enwonwu Foundation
J.D. Okhai Ojeikere Untitled (Agaracha) 1974, printed 2012 Tate Purchased with funds provided by the Acquisitions Fund for African Art Supported by Guaranty Trust Bank Plc 2013
See the exhibition then enjoy a snack and two courses from our special set menu in our stunning Restaurant afterwards. The menu is an exclusive collaboration with Aji Akokomi, the founder of Akara, a London restaurant that celebrates Nigerian heritage through modern interpretations of traditional dishes.
£56* for the exhibition and two courses from the set menu
Available daily with 11.15, 12.00, or 12.45 exhibition entry, followed by lunch
*A discretionary 12.5% service charge will be added to your bill
All Tate Modern entrances are step-free. You can enter via the Turbine Hall and into the Natalie Bell Building on Holland Street, or into the Blavatnik Building on Sumner street. There are lifts to every floor of the Blavatnik and Natalie Bell buildings. Alternatively you can take the stairs.
- Fully accessible toilets are located on every floor on the concourses.
- A quiet room is available to use in the Natalie Bell Building on Level 4.
- Ear defenders can be borrowed from the Ticket desks.
To help plan your visit to Tate Modern, have a look at our visual story. It includes photographs and information about what you can expect from a visit to the gallery.
For more information before your visit:
- Email hello@tate.org.uk
- Call +44 (0)20 7887 8888 (daily 10.00–17.00)
