Nigerian interdisciplinary artist Modupeola Fadugba has been named the 2025 laureate of the Norval Sovereign African Art Prize (NSAAP), which is one of the continent’s most prestigious art honors. The announcement was made in late February at the Norval Foundation in Cape Town. Fadugba was awarded a $35,000 cash prize and a solo exhibition at the institution. Additionally, she will be enjoying a two-week artist residency at Outset Contemporary Art Fund in London.
Fadugba’s winning work, Portrait of An Artist at Ease, is described as an acrylic painting on canvas with deep black and shiny gold colors. Specifically, it shows the artist appearing from a dark background, symbolizing mystery and discovery. Also, the painting uses smooth textures and strong contrasts to represent the artist’s journey of gaining confidence and finding herself.
According to a statement released by Fadugba’s media consultant, the piece “deeply resonated with the judges” and was singled out “from the impressive pool of submissions.” Moreover, one of the five panelists, art historian and curator, Dr. Same Mdluli, said,
“We are pleased to honor an artist whose work exemplifies the significance and impact of this prize.”
The win marks a milestone for Modupeola Fadugba, 40, whose career has straddled academia, activism, and art. A former chemical engineer with degrees from the University of Delaware and Harvard University, she transitioned to art full-time in the early 2010s. One of her most acclaimed works to date is the 2018 Dreams from the Deep End Installation hosted at Gallery 1957. It features some black figures swimming in an abstract underwater world and others lounging around a pool.
The work was inspired by The Harlem Honeys and Bears. They are a group of senior citizens who perform synchronized swimming routines and teach kids how to swim for free.
Meanwhile, following her win at the 2025 Norval Sovereign African Art Prize, she shared,
“I’m so pleased to be selected as the grand prize winner, amongst many of my peers across the continent. What an absolute honour. I look forward to bringing a beautiful solo exhibition to the Norval Foundation and broader Cape Town community soon. Thank you, to all, for this unexpected gift.”
Past winners have come from South Africa, Morocco, and Mali. Currently, Fadugba’s work is available for viewing in Gallery 9 at Norval Foundation until April 20th.
