Ibe Ananaba Nigerian, b. 1976

The Magic Within is a virtual salon which touches on the highs and lows we all experience, as we slow down and give ourselves time to reflect and take stock. Ananaba’s seated figures emanate a deep sense of repose and introspection.
The accents and highlights which he creates through the deft use of his palette knife, explore the complexity of our thoughtscapes, influenced by the constant socio-political pressures which grab our attention, and impact our peace of mind.
Through these powerful portraits Ananaba beckons us to pause, step back, and become silent observers.

SMO is proud to present Our Story II, an exhibition of artworks selected from the Wheatbaker hotel’s permanent collection. Our Story II celebrates highlights of SMO’s curatorial journey over the...

Towards The Light is a solo exhibition of recent works by painter-philosopher Ibe Ananaba, which brings solace at a time of emotional and political fatigue as we near the end of a very challenging year. While the constraints on our lives in the midst of the corona pandemic are not relenting, and we sustain our support for Nigeria’s inspiring youth movement calling for good governance and an end to police brutality. Ananaba’s works remind us to continue to tap into the power of community, and the hope, vitality and pure creative energy of our visionary, impatient youth.

An art exhibition showcasing paintings and mixed media works by phenomenal contemporary artists, Tony Nsofor and Ibe Ananaba, introduces art enthusiasts to the very heart and pulse of Nigerian creativity responding to global issues such as migration and the effect of social media on inter-personal communication.