.png)
Obiwuru Esther in Conversation: Painting African Women and Their Essence
- THE.CCART
- Aug 21
- 3 min read
What keeps an artist going when sales are uncertain, materials are expensive, and the journey is unpredictable? For Nigerian visual artist Obiwuru Esther, the answer lies in consistency, resilience, and a deep commitment to showcasing the beauty of African women.
In this exclusive conversation with THE.CCART, Esther opens up about her art journey, residencies that shaped her, and why African hairstyles and red patterned backdrops have become central to her practice.
Finding Her Way into Art
Esther’s journey began somewhat unexpectedly. She didn’t initially apply to study art, but when she was admitted to study Art and Industrial Design at Lagos State Polytechnic (now Lagos State University of Science and Technology), she decided to give it a try. That decision became a turning point. Excelling in her Higher National Diploma, she embraced the practice fully, choosing to build a career as a professional artist.
Residencies That Shaped Her Practice
Looking back, Esther highlights two key experiences that defined her growth. Her first, the TR Residency, gave her the opportunity to learn from fellow residents and established artists. The exchange of ideas deepened her confidence and sparked the belief that art was a lifelong calling. Later, the Kuta Art Residency offered another pivotal moment, refining her personal approach and helping her build her artistic voice.
“These experiences made me feel that this art is something I want to do for a very long time,” she reflects.
Staying Committed Despite Challenges
Choosing to become a full-time artist has kept Esther dedicated to her practice. Even when sales are inconsistent or materials grow costly, she continues to produce and showcase her work in Nigerian galleries and exhibitions.
“I’m yet to produce my best work, but I want to keep going and bring out the very best I have.”
Her persistence reflects the wider struggle and determination of women artists in Africa, who continue to create despite structural challenges.
Painting African Women Through Hair and Symbolism
Esther’s recent work has developed a recognisable focus on African women in art. She often uses hairstyles as a central motif, treating them as symbols of identity, culture, and expression. One of her most personal works, Lady from the South, portrays a dark-skinned woman with a hairstyle inspired by Madagascar traditions. With bold contrasts of light and shade, the work highlights the resilience, strength, and elegance of Black women.
“This painting is very dear to me. It expresses how powerful light and shade can be in showing the beauty of African women.”
From Concept to Canvas
Esther’s art process begins with an idea sketched in her mind. She plans her colour schemes, patterns, and compositions before stretching her canvas. While her vision may shift during painting, her goal remains the same: to capture the essence of her subjects and showcase African women as powerful and beautiful.
Advice to Aspiring Artists
Esther is honest about the challenges, slow sales, rising material costs, and financial uncertainty, but her advice to emerging artists is simple and powerful:
“Don’t give up. Being an artist is not easy, but the good outweighs the bad. Keep going, you’ll get there.”
Thank You, Obiwuru Esther
We’re grateful to Obiwuru Esther for sharing her story and her work with THE.CCART. Her practice highlights the importance of African hairstyles in painting and celebrates the strength of Black women in art. Her journey is a reminder that contemporary Nigerian art continues to thrive through persistence, identity, and cultural expression.
🎥 Watch the full interview now and hear Esther’s story in her own words.
By THE.CCART
