Virginia Chihota

Virginia Chihota’s work explores black female subjectivity and the notion of ‘belonging’ as a form of cosmopolitanism. Across printmaking, drawing and painting, she suggests novel ways to think about dislocated subjects, domesticity and shifting identities. Born in Zimbabwe, Chihota has lived in Libya, Tunisia, Austria and Montenegro. Her itinerant experiences shape her work and her sense of self. She describes her practice as a ‘reflection on self-discovery in constantly changing circumstances’.

Founded in London in 2011 by Maria Varnava, Tiwani Contemporary exhibits and represents international contemporary artists. Specifically, the gallery champions artists from Africa and its diaspora. To celebrate its 10-year anniversary, in February 2022 Tiwani Contemporary launched a purpose-built 2,000sq ft space on Victoria Island, Lagos. For Maria Varnava, who grew up in Nigeria, this is considered a homecoming. Besides its regular programme of exhibitions, Tiwani Contemporary Lagos collaborates with G.A.S –Guest Artists Space–, Yinka Shonibare’s Foundation, to offer residencies for international artists from the programme who are interested in expanding their creative practice and exchanging with local artists. The gallery aims to collaborate and contribute to the arts ecosystem in Lagos through its programme of exhibitions, talks and publications. The gallery is a regular exhibitor at Art X Lagos. Meanwhile, Tiwani Contemporary runs a programme of exhibitions in London and its programme of International Art Fairs. ...