The ongoing “New Photography 2023” exhibition at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) features the works of seven Nigerian photographers. This is the first time living West African photographers have been showcased at a group show in MoMA, and marks a shift toward a more global outlook by the museum. The exhibition encompasses a broad range of styles and textures, colors and gestures, working through street photography, documentary, and abstraction, landing in Yagazie Emezi’s photojournalistic images of the October 2020 #EndSARS protests in Nigeria. The works of Kelani Abass, Abraham Oghobase, and Akinbode Akinbiyi have been acquired by the museum. Logo Oluwamuyiwa’s photo “Coming Close” showcases the busy and unpredictable nature of Lagos. Amanda Iheme and Abraham Oghobase’s work revolves around the dilapidated buildings that remain in Lagos, uncovering the city’s history. The exhibition as a whole demonstrates how the works of seven individuals can form a wonderful introduction for a global audience, with Lagos as an intriguing starting point.
