Art is more than just a form of expression; for renowned Nigerian artist, Mr. Okechukwu Echerem, it’s been a calling that defied expectations and shaped his path in life. During a recent visit to the Nike Art Gallery by Berexnews, Mr. Echerem shared his intriguing drive, divulging the depth of his commitment to art that began as a child and later became a full-fledged career despite societal pressures.
From Childhood Play to Lifelong Passion
Growing up in the village of Orlu, in Imo State, Mr. Echerem was drawn to art from an early age. What began as a child’s innocent play soon became a deep passion that would define his life’s work. “As children, some of us liked cars or dolls, but for me, art was my play,” he recalled. This early fascination with creativity, however, was not widely understood by his family. In a community where no one practiced art, his parents struggled to see art as a viable career path.
At first, this passion caused tension, with Echerem receiving countless beatings for his artistic inclinations. “Art was a problem for me,” he admitted. But, it was an important conversation with an uncle that changed everything. His uncle convinced his father that art could be more than just a hobby; it could be a means of livelihood. This support was pivotal, marking a turning point in Echerem life, leading him toward the artistic career he enjoys today.
The Tension Between Art and Education
Echerem love for art remained inflexible even as he pursued a more traditional education. He excelled in architecture, earning admission into a university to study the subject. But his passion for art couldn’t be ignored. “The desire for art was so heavy that it overruled my concentration in school,” he said. His longing to create, to bring his visions to life, made it difficult for him to complete his education. Eventually, he dropped out of university to fully embrace his passion for art.
His parents, disappointed by his decision, sent him to learn a trade. In 1983, he travelled to Cameroon, where he spent the next several years learning spare parts trading. Though he successfully completed his apprenticeship, his heart was always with art. “I was a man of many colours, and my true calling was in art,” He shared. The decision to focus on art was not easy, but it was inevitable. He left trading behind and fully committed himself to his craft.
From Art to Global Recognition
The journey to becoming a renowned artist has not been without its struggles, but the rewards have been substantial. Art has taken Echerem across the world, bringing him recognition and opportunities. His work has been featured in prominent art exhibitions, including representing Nigeria in Johannesburg, South Africa, where he was recognised as one of the top 24 African artists. He has also participated in art exchanges between India and Africa, where he taught recycling art, helping people turn discarded materials into works of beauty.
His travels have not only exposed him to new cultures but have also shaped his standpoint on the importance of African art in the global scene. Through these experiences, Echerem has firmly established himself as a key figure in contemporary African art.
Innovating with Waste: The Art of Recycling
One of Echerem unique contributions to the art world is his use of recycled materials in his work. He creates stunning pieces using items that would typically be discarded, such as bones, seeds, and other organic materials. “In my environment, I see beauty in things others might call waste,” he explained. His art often incorporates beads, bones, and seeds that he collects from his surroundings, transforming them into intricate designs that challenge conventional notions of what art is made of.
“My art is a form of recycling,” Echerem continued. “I take things that others throw away and give them new life.” His innovative approach has earned him applause not only for his creativity but also for his ability to address environmental concerns through art. His works are not only visually striking but also serve as a reminder of the potential hidden within discarded materials.
Art: A Means to Sustainable Future
For Echerem, art is not just about making beautiful objects; it’s about creating sustainable change. He believes that art can serve as a tool for raising awareness about recycling and sustainability. His work with recyclable materials is just one example of how he uses his artistic platform to promote eco-consciousness.
In Nigeria, where waste management is a significant challenge, Echerem approach to art is more than just an aesthetic choice, it’s a call to action. He urges the government to provide more support for artists, recognising that art is an integral part of society’s growth and development. “We need government support,” he emphasised. “Art is everywhere, it can be found in our airplanes, in our cars, in our computers and artists are the ones who design and create these things.”
The Changing Perception of African Art
Echerem work also speaks to the evolving perception of African art. Traditionally, art in many African communities was often viewed with scepticism, seen as “fetish” or disconnected from modern life. But Echerem believes that this perception is changing. “Nigerians are beginning to understand that our art is our technology, our way of life,” he said.
In recent years, there has been a growing interest in African art, both locally and internationally. Many Nigerians are now incorporating traditional art into their homes and lives, appreciating its cultural significance and beauty. “People want to wear traditional jewellery, decorate their houses with African art, and express their heritage,” Echerem observed. This shift in mindset has helped elevate African art, opening doors for artists like him to gain recognition both in Nigeria and abroad.
Art as a Lucrative Career
While many might not initially view art as a lucrative career, Echerem story proves otherwise. His dedication to his craft has allowed him to make a living from art, travel the world, and gain financial stability. “Art has helped me sort out all my problems,” he affirmed. Despite the challenges, he has no regrets about choosing art as his career.
He also shared that, as an artist, it is difficult to quantify exactly how much money he makes annually from his work due to the fluctuating nature of the art market. “We artists don’t always keep records, and sometimes we reinvest in our work,” he explained. However, he is confident that art has provided him with both financial and personal fulfilment.
The Next Generation of Artists
Echerem passion for art has not only impacted his own life but also influenced his children. “All my children are artists,” he said, though they are not yet practicing professionally as they are still in school. He is proud to see his artistic spirit carried on in the next generation, and he hopes that they will continue to build on the foundation he has laid.
His advice to young artists is simple: “Art is about passion. If you love it, pursue it, regardless of the challenges.” His journey from a young boy with a love for painting to a globally recognised artist is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and the belief that art can change the world.
Conclusion
Mr. Okechukwu Echerem’s story is one of resilience, passion, and innovation. From the rural village of Orlu to international recognition, his journey proves that when you follow your heart, the world will take notice. Through his work, he has shown that art is not just about creating beauty, it’s about transforming society, challenging perceptions, and embracing sustainability. His story is an inspiration for aspiring artists everywhere, reminding them that with dedication, anything is possible.
