A Closer Look at Soldier’s First Exhibition in London

Leonardo Iheagwam SOLDIER teamed up with the Incubator for his first exhibition in London’s west end.

“What would Nigerian, Igbo Pop Art look like today?”

The incubator showcased new and previous pieces that were seen by the public by the public for the first time. 

Soldier set the tone for 2024 with When The Saints Go Marching - his fans got to experience his work in the flesh, an immersive experience in Nigerian history—presenting a range of paintings, sculptures and mixed-media artwork. Each piece examines the Nigerian Civil War as the country experienced separation and despair in the 1960s, Soldier displays a contrast to the dreaded time. As one of the most exciting faces in London’s modern art scene, he works against the grain by selling his pieces on social media.

The exhibition allowed his fans to experience his work in the flesh and alongside his infamous sculptures. The son of a priest in Nigeria, his perception of life has been through the eyes of the community. “In Nigeria, no one takes art very seriously, you either have to be a doctor or lawyer.” Challenged by Nigerian cultural expectations, Leonardo emerged into the art scene after crafting his diverse mediums while offering a different narrative of the human experience.

Walking in the Incubator’s gallery alongside SOLDIER’s moments and sculptures represents an understanding of the Nigerian order digestible by Western society. Some paintings strongly reference SOLDIER’s tribe - the Igbo tribe – close to his heart. In every corner of the exhibition, each piece is styled in a manner described by the artist himself as “Igbo Pop Art” bold, colourful and expressive. Interpreting the moment in a unique way that aligns with our modern generation introduces a new concept into society today.

Photography By Incubator

Photography By Incubator

Photography By Incubator