23 LC 126 0282
H. R. 644
- 1 -
House Resolution 644
By: Representatives Olaleye of the 59
th
, Holly of the 116
th
, Adeyina of the 110
th
, Adesanya
of the 43
rd
, and Okoye of the 102
nd
A RESOLUTION
Recognizing and commending Bruce Paul Obomeyoma Onobrakpeya; and for other
1
purposes.2
WHEREAS, an acclaimed Nigerian artist, Bruce Paul Obomeyoma Onobrakpeya has long3
been recognized by his peers, colleagues, and fans as one of the fathers of Nigerian4
modernism; and5
WHEREAS, he is the recipient of some of the highest national honors in Nigeria, including6
the Nigerian National Order of Merit and the Nigerian Creativity Award, as well as7
international honors such as the UNESCO Living Human Treasure Award; and8
WHEREAS, his exhibit, Bruce Onobrakpeya: The Mask and the Cross, will open at the High9
Museum on April 8, 2023, featuring a capsule of his works focused on his interpretations of10
Christian themes and biblical stories; and11
WHEREAS, the exhibition will further generate exciting discussion about Nigerian12
modernism and Nigerian 20th century art, including the early post-colonial contexts in which13
many of the featured artworks were created; and14 23 LC 126 0282
H. R. 644
- 2 -
WHEREAS, his first solo exhibition at a United States museum, the event will be curated by
15
Lauren Tate Baeza, the first non-White individual to curate an exhibit at the High Museum;16
and17
WHEREAS, as additional testament to his artistic contributions, he was a founding member18
of the famed Zaria Art Society, an art collective that developed a philosophy and art practice19
that merged traditional Nigerian forms with European techniques, defining a new Nigerian20
visual language; and21
WHEREAS, this distinguished gentleman has given inspiration to many through his high22
ideals, morals, and deep concern for his fellow citizens, and he possesses the vast wisdom23
which only comes through experience and the strength of character which is achieved24
through overcoming the many challenges of life; and25
WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that the outstanding accomplishments of this26
remarkable and distinguished artist be appropriately recognized.27
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that28
the members of this body recognize and commend Bruce Paul Obomeyoma Onobrakpeya29
for his many outstanding artistic accomplishments and extend best wishes for continued30
success.31
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized32
and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to Bruce33
Paul Obomeyoma Onobrakpeya.34