UK-based artist pushes for cultural revival through art, technology

A Nigerian artist, Zainab Nneka Odemwingie, has called for a renewed push to preserve and project the nation’s cultural heritage through art, research and technology. Speaking during a virtual media briefing with journalists at the weekend, Odemige, who is based in the United Kingdom, said her passion is to reintroduce African folklore and identity to […]

A Nigerian artist, Zainab Nneka Odemwingie, has called for a renewed push to preserve and project the nation’s cultural heritage through art, research and technology.

Speaking during a virtual media briefing with journalists at the weekend, Odemige, who is based in the United Kingdom, said her passion is to reintroduce African folklore and identity to younger generations who are at risk of losing touch with their roots.

“I grew up in Benin City and I often wondered why the dolls I played with never looked like me,” she said. “The Western world has Cinderella and Princess Elsa, but where are our own fairy tales? Where are the stories of Queen Idia and the heroes of our tradition?”

Odemige, who has worked as an artist for nearly two decades, explained that her work goes beyond the canvas. Through paintings, comic projects and immersive virtual reality, she said she is bringing African stories back to life in formats that younger people can easily relate to.

“Folklore is not just history. It is identity, it is resilience, it is courage,” she said. “Technology helps me bring these stories back in a way the next generation can connect with, whether by walking through an ancient Benin palace in VR or reading comics about our forgotten heroes.”

She cited her project, The Legend of Ara, which allows children to experience the story of a giant king of Benin through virtual reality, as an example of how traditional culture can merge with modern platforms.

The artist also called for government policies to support cultural innovators. “Abroad, I could walk into a VR lab and get resources. In Nigeria, even reaching a commissioner is difficult,” she said. “Accessibility and proper funding are what we need.”

Odemige, who has previously held exhibitions in Abuja, said she plans to revive art competitions in Nigerian schools to encourage young talents. “That was how my own art journey began, and it is how we can touch them young,” she added.