Olufunke Esekhalu Ojukwu (b. 1981) is a Nigerian visual artist whose practice centres on community, gender equality, tradition, and culture.
While Ojukwu’s early work explored three-dimensional recycled plastics, reflecting an interest in sustainability and upcycling, she has recently rediscovered her love of painting as a means of self-expression. Her current practice challenges societal perceptions of African women, presenting them as protagonists who shoulder one another’s responsibilities. These individuals experience life interconnectedly forming a sisterhood. The philosophy of her work draws from the Yoruba adage “Aaro meta kii da obe nu,” meaning, “A three-legged pot can never spill the soup.” Put simply, a person is only as strong as their support system.
Over the years, her work has been exhibited both locally and internationally, including her debut solo exhibition, Looking Out From Within, presented at JCAA, Lagos (2022). Art Through Ages at Alliance Française in Accra (2016); and The Lay of the Land at The Art Room, Parkhurst, South Africa (2023). She has received recognition in various competitions, including 3rd position in the Don Quixote in Nigeria Art Competition sponsored by the Embassy of Spain, Abuja (2008), and participation in Celebrating 50–50 Independence: Rapprochement, also sponsored by the Embassy of Spain, Abuja (2010). Her works are also represented by IAC Paris Art Gallery on Artsy.
Beyond her studio practice, Ojukwu engages in mentorship and community-based workshops, nurturing emerging artists and fostering creative dialogue, including the Artmiabo International Art Festival at EbonyLife Place, Lagos (2022), Jelosimi Art Centre ( 2022) and TAOH Africa (2025).