30r364 boek.qxd:awards book 11 - Prince Claus Fund

James Iroha UchechukwuNigeriaJames Iroha Uchechukwu (b. 1972, Enugu) is the leading light of a new generation of Nigerianphotographers. By fusing the documentation of everyday reality with the creative language ofimagery, Uchechukwu expands the possibilities of photography, pushing local art in new directions.His high quality images depict bodies in context, exploring the physicality of existence in the mixof cultures and influences that is 21st century Lagos, a megacity with urgent social issues. Fire,Flesh and Blood (2004), a group of images depicting open-air abattoirs, won the Elan Prize at theAfrican Photography Encounters (2005). While documentary in inspiration, the series plungesthe viewer into the chaos of colour, smoke and close-ups that are iconic in their intensity, capturingmoments that are at once harsh, powerful and poetic.Uchechukwu was instrumental in founding the Depth of Field (DOF) collective, bringingsix talented young photographers together to create strong exhibitions in Nigeria and abroad.By combining their highly individual perspectives they offer insight into the complexity of theirenvironment. Uchechukwu is also instrumental in mentoring a younger generation of photo -graphers through workshops and seminars.James Iroha Uchechukwu is awarded for his striking photographic work, for his stimulationof photography as a contemporary Nigerian art form, and for his energetic support of young artists.[from the 2008 Prince Claus Awards Jury Report]Culture and the Human Body99