Chidinma Yemisi Mordi, born in Kaduna, Nigeria, to Igbo and Yoruba parents, draws
inspiration from the diverse cultures that surround her. Watching and learning from
these cultures have profoundly influenced her art, allowing her to capture her
perception of the essence of Nigeria in her paintings.
inspiration from the diverse cultures that surround her. Watching and learning from
these cultures have profoundly influenced her art, allowing her to capture her
perception of the essence of Nigeria in her paintings.
Chidinma's journey as an artist began at a tender age, where she would often be
found drawing on the walls of her parents' home. Her parents recognized her innate
talent and diligently preserved her artworks from her earliest years. Currently
residing in Abuja, Federal Capital Territory, she practises as a full-time artist from her
room turned studio, crafting vibrant and evocative works of art.
Her artworks are a vivid reflection of her cultural heritage, celebrating the heart of the
people and the vibrant fabrics and adornments they wear. Inspired by the
interactions she observes in markets, public transport systems, and weddings,
Chidinma creates paintings that capture the communal spirit ingrained in her culture.
Her preferred mediums include acrylic, ink, and various materials on canvas,
resulting in paintings that burst with colour and life.
Through her art, Chidinma relays messages of hope, beauty, and dreams. Her
passage into the world of art became more sturdy with her exploration of fine art in
secondary school, she subsequently continued with the pursuit of a Bachelor's and
Master's degree in Architecture from the Federal University of Technology in Minna,
Niger State. Her talent has been recognized through various art competitions,
including the British Airways Art and Essay Competition during her formative years.
In April 2023, Chidinma held her first solo exhibition, "Onyemaechi: Who Knows
Tomorrow," at the Discovery Museum in Abuja, followed by another solo exhibition,
"Give Tomorrow a Chance," at the Dolapo Obat Gallery, Abuja. Her work has also
been featured in group exhibitions such as "For Her Eyes Only" curated by Leora
Consults, Nigeria and "EmpowerHER: Creativity, Courage, and Magical Thinking" by
CasildART Contemporary in London, United Kingdom.
Chidinma acknowledges the profound influence of artists such as Peju Alatise,
Kehinde Wiley and Njideka Akunyili Crosby, whose portrayals of human emotion and
stillness deeply resonate with her. She employs a wide range of materials in her
creations, such as acrylic, poly markers, newspapers, wool, ink, pens, and paper on
canvas. Additionally, she explores the digital medium to expand her artistic horizons.
Influenced by artists such as Peju Alatise and Njideka Crossby, Chidinma's paintings
evoke human emotion and introspection, capturing the essence of Nigerian culture
with every brushstroke. Alongside her traditional mediums, she also embraces digital
art, illustrating children's books and designing captivating book covers. Notably, she
authored the "Fruit of the Spirit Colouring Book" for children and illustrated "I Am a
Nigerian in Literature" under the Tani Series.
canvas. Additionally, she explores the digital medium to expand her artistic horizons.
Influenced by artists such as Peju Alatise and Njideka Crossby, Chidinma's paintings
evoke human emotion and introspection, capturing the essence of Nigerian culture
with every brushstroke. Alongside her traditional mediums, she also embraces digital
art, illustrating children's books and designing captivating book covers. Notably, she
authored the "Fruit of the Spirit Colouring Book" for children and illustrated "I Am a
Nigerian in Literature" under the Tani Series.
Through her art, Chidinma endeavours to preserve and celebrate Nigerian culture,
portraying its vibrant colours and resilient spirit. With each painting, she imparts a
message of hope, beauty, and the enduring strength of her homeland.