Timothy Orikri ~ Artist, Writer, Musician
Timothy UfuomaEfe Orikri is a freelance artist known for expressive works that range from semi-realism and abstraction to hand-painted ceramics to writings and music. Born in Delta State in southern Nigeria as the son of a Baptist minister, his early upbringing shaped both his artistic vision and his outlook on humanity, faith, and nature.
Now based in Michigan, Orikri creates artwork centered on hope, harmony, compassion, and human connection. Through vibrant colors, layered textures, and mixed media techniques, he seeks to inspire reflection and encourage a deeper appreciation for the beauty and dignity of life.
A graduate of Delta State University Abraka in Nigeria with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Fine Art Education, Orikri blends African, European, and American artistic influences into a style that bridges traditional and contemporary expression while remaining deeply connected to his cultural roots.
Timothy Orikri’s work invites viewers to pause, reflect, and connect emotionally with each piece. His art is both deeply personal and universally meaningful, combining imagination, culture, and purpose to create works that enrich communities and celebrate the shared human experience.
Timothy’s art is bold and beautiful. The colors are captivating, and, regardless of the subject matter, intriguing and truly compelling. There is a spiritual quality to his work that is reflective of his outlook on life.
– Sherri Mewha, Owner, Sherrus Galleries
Since moving to the United States in 1995, Orikri’s work has been exhibited in museums, colleges, churches, galleries, and public institutions across the country. Beyond the canvas, Orikri is passionate about community-centered art projects that bring people together through creativity and collaboration.
Among his most recognized projects are the multimedia mural Pyramid of Peace, created alongside 119 children from a myriad of racial, religious, and ability backgrounds, and his featured participation in the AFRICA: One Continent, Many Worlds exhibit at the St. Louis Science Center, sponsored by TIME Magazine and Ford Motor Company. During the exhibit, he created a large-scale multimedia mural portraying life in an African village.
Timothy Orikri has also collaborated with hundreds of students in Michigan schools on projects such as Compassion: Art & Life and Building a City of Love, using art as a tool for unity, understanding, and positive change.
