Rufus Ogundele

Rufus Ogundele was born in Oshogbo. In 1963 he participated in Denis Williams' workshop organised by Ulli and Georgina Beier. From the beginning, Ogundele worked on a large scale initially using emulsion paint, later developing his skills as a printmaker (linocut technique) under the guidance of Georgina Beier. Ogundele combined the European artistic techniques he developed under Williams' and especially Beier's tutelage with the teachings of traditional Yoruba culture. His subject matter attests to his strong beliefs, which are rooted in Yoruba culture and life.

His work has been exhibited in Nigeria, U.S.A., U.K., Germany, Ghana, Kenya, Czechoslovakia, Canada and Japan. In 1966-68 his works were shown in a Smithsonian Institution travelling exhibition, and at the Institute of Contemporary Art, London.