Coffee Art by Ekene Ngige

Nigerian artist, Ekene Ngige, originally painted with acrylic and watercolour until a random coffee spill on paper gave him an idea that has differentiated him amongst contemporary artists!

His creations are now usually done with only coffee mixed with water. And this gives it such a unique look.

“I sketch my canvas myself,” he said. “I add a rough texture to the canvas. Then I dilute my coffee powder with little drops of water, so I can easily control the light shades with my wet brush. Then, I paint the canvas with the light shade of coffee. After it’s done, I varnish the painting with a gloss for a shiny effect and a long-lasting life span, and it’s ready to brace any wall or home.” ~ Ngige via Face2Face Africa

You would typically see Ngige painting about issues that are affecting Nigeria, especially poverty and more recently, human rights. But you will also see lighter topics - like his simple appreciation for coffee.

We must say as well - when you get up close to any of his paintings, you catch strong scented whiffs of coffee - an added pleasure to the experience! See some of his work below.