Timothy UfuomaEfe Orikri is a freelance artist whose style varies from semi-realism to abstract paintings, hand-painted ceramics and music. Although currently residing in Michigan, he was born the son of a Baptist minister in the Delta State, southern Nigeria. It’s not surprising that this early upbringing has been influential on his perception of the world. His artistic desires – much like the messages given by his father from the pulpit – come in themes of hope, harmony, and the gift of nature. His sincere lifelong desire is to use a wide spectrum of vibrant colors and mixed mediums to create a secure world in which humanity is restored to God’s intended pure state for man at the dawn of creation.
Orikri graduated from Delta State University Abraka in southern Nigeria with a B.A. (Ed) in Fine Art. His continually evolving artwork is a marrying of African, European, and American influences which he skillfully bridges the gap between the ancient and modern – never forgetting his roots. He attributes this training in mainstream Euro-American art production techniques to the course he’s followed in expressing his art ideas.
Since arriving in the United States in 1995, Orikri’s work has been widely exhibited in several prominent museums, colleges, churches, and public buildings.
His desire is that every piece created will portray the qualities that will enlighten, deepen, and ultimately enrich the human race for all to be enjoyed. In his own words, “As an artist, I am constantly searching for diverse format in order to create imaginative, thought-provoking pieces. This search has enabled me to create unique artworks relevant to traditional and modern trends.”
Several of his most impactful works include:
- When he collaborated with 119 children of different races, religions, and abilities in the production of a multimedia mural entitled “Pyramid of Peace.” By bringing together children of such diverse backgrounds he wanted to break the stereotypes children often learn from their parents or society, showing them they each have unique talents which they can use to help society and others.
- As a feature artist at the St. Louis Science Center’s traveling exhibit entitled “AFRICA: One Continent, Many Worlds” sponsored by TIME Magazine and Ford Motor Company. During this 3-month exhibit, Orikri created a one-of-a-kind multi-media mural measuring 7 feet x 24 feet portraying an African village scene.
- His collaboration with 200 children from Allen Park Middle School, Arno Elementary School, and Maria Montessori School in Michigan, in creating multiple fragmented multi-media murals titled “Compassion: Art & Life,” as well as on the “Building a City of Love Project.”
The paintings of this artist truly belong to one of the best of recent Africa paintings; he has something profound to express and contributes significantly to the growth, relevance and visibility of contemporary world art, as well as enriches society by his “making a difference through art programs.” Timothy Orikri’s art is expressive – drawing you in to look, linger, and absorb what you see and feel.
Selected Commissions and Collections and Selected Art Donations