The Norval Foundation and The Sovereign Art Foundation (SAF) are pleased to announce Modupeola Fadugba as the Grand Prize Winner of The Norval Sovereign African Art Prize 2025, sponsored by Schroders.
Fadugba, a Nigerian artist, won with her work Portrait Of An Artist At Ease, becoming the fourth recipient of the prestigious prize. The award, which celebrates leading contemporary artists, includes a US$35,000 cash prize, a solo exhibition at Norval Foundation in Cape Town, and a two-week residency at Outset Contemporary Art Fund in London.
Fadugba’s work bridges art, science, and social engagement. With a background in chemical engineering and economics, she uses painting, drawing, and installations to explore identity, justice, and human connection. Based in Ibadan, her thought-provoking art reflects contemporary Nigerian narratives.
Marking a decade in her artistic journey, Portrait Of An Artist At Ease is a striking acrylic-on-canvas piece featuring deep black and luminous gold. It evokes mystery and revelation, with the artist emerging ethereally from darkness. The dynamic contrasts and fluid textures symbolize confidence and self-discovery, merging tradition and innovation.
On winning, Fadugba shared: “I’m honored to be selected among such talented peers across the continent. I look forward to presenting a solo exhibition at Norval Foundation and engaging with the Cape Town community. Thank you for this unexpected gift.”
A panel of five esteemed judges, including Raphael Chikukwa (National Gallery of Zimbabwe), Tim Marlow (Design Museum, UK), Dr. Same Mdluli (artist, art historian, and curator), Thato Mogotsi (Zeitz MOCAA), and Simon Njami (independent curator and art critic), selected Fadugba’s work from 28 finalists.
Dr. Same Mdluli commented: “The immense talent of African artists made the selection process both challenging and exciting. We are pleased to honor an artist whose work exemplifies the significance and impact of this prize.”
The announcement took place during a private event celebrating Billie Zangewa’s exhibition Breeding Ground at Norval Foundation. The evening also marked the introduction of the FAMM Women’s Prize, awarded to DuduBloom More for her work Contending With Control, as the highest-rated female artist (excluding the Grand Prize winner). She received US$5,000 in recognition of her outstanding contribution to contemporary African art.
Expressing her gratitude, More stated: “I am deeply honored to receive the inaugural FAMM Women’s Prize. This recognition affirms my work and highlights the contributions of those who support and inspire me.”
Leisa Paoli, Director of FAMM, emphasized: “FAMM is dedicated to supporting and promoting women artists, ensuring their voices are heard. We are thrilled to recognize DuduBloom More, whose work in printmaking and textiles masterfully conveys emotion and personal experience. Through this prize, in partnership with Norval and SAF, we continue to elevate female artists.”
All 28 finalist artworks, including the winning pieces, are available for auction via Strauss & Co. until 13 March 2025, with proceeds benefiting both the artists and Norval Foundation’s Learning Centre for art education.
Bina Genovese, Managing Executive at Strauss & Co., remarked: “We are proud to support the Norval Sovereign African Art Prize 2025. This initiative showcases Africa’s rich artistic landscape, aligning with our mission to champion and bring African art to market. The funds raised will contribute to art education, reinforcing our belief in art’s transformative power.”
Curated by Carmen Joubert, The Norval Sovereign African Art Prize 2025 exhibition is open for viewing in Gallery 9 at Norval Foundation until 20 April 2025.
Past Grand Prize winners include Amina Agueznay (Morocco, 1963), Famakan Magassa (Mali, 1997), and Bonolo Kavula (South Africa, 1992).
For more information, please visit The Norval Foundation.
