Chisom Chiwete’s journey as an artist began long before she ever stepped into a university studio. From her earliest years, she was drawn to painting and every form of creative expression. What we assumed was a childhood passion only grew stronger with time, eventually leading her to pursue the study of art at the university level.
Growing up, Chisom possessed a curious and imaginative spirit, eager to explore every aspect of art and culture. I remember her early years being filled with paintbrushes, beads, and sketchbooks — each creation an outpouring of thoughtful passion and beauty
With no formal painting classes offered during her secondary school years, Chisom took it upon herself to learn, experiment, and refine her craft independently. Through discipline, curiosity, and consistency, she developed a distinctive artistic voice that continues to evolve today.
While many know her simply as an artist, I know her as someone deeply intentional about her creativity and committed to expressing her admiration and reverence for her cultural heritage and African roots through her work. Her paintings tell stories that words often fail to capture: reflections of Afrocentrism rendered through oil and acrylic, rich with emotion, memory, and identity. Some of her notable works include Janded, Sit Like a Lady, and Shakara Ladies.
She has been featured in several exhibitions, including the Toronto Annual Black Art Fair. Her exquisite skill, originality, and artistic elegance earned her the prestigious Elizabeth Greenshields Foundation Grant in 2025.
Chisom is an artist whose roots and heritage have not only touched her canvas but also the hearts of those who encounter her work. Her passion and creativity continue to inspire others to embrace their individuality, take charge of their dreams, and move boldly forward.
As she continues to grow, her resilience, courage, and dedication have carried her through her journey as a student at the University of Manitoba, shaping her into the remarkable artist she is today.
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Which ’hood are you in?
I currently live in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Currently studying Fine Arts at the University of Manitoba. However, I was born and raised in Nigeria, and my work really reflects my experience and the culture that shaped who I am today.
What do you do?
I mostly work with oil and acrylic paints, but lately I’ve been branching out into using mixed media like yarn, newspaper, magazines and other found objects. My practice is rooted in portraiture and more often, self-portraiture, most times exaggerated and theatrical. In particular, I’ve even trying to capture moments of vulnerability, memory and social commentary through distortion and mixed media. I’m really into colours, and I enjoy using bold solid colours in my work and experimenting with patterns. I am interested in exploring memory, culture and making the sorts of works that I would love to see that come from a deep place in my heart. I hope that others who see my art can connect with it.
What are you currently working on?
Since I am still in art school, going into my final year, I am currently cooking up ideas for my thesis for my honours exhibition at the end of the school year. I’m looking into adding ceramics into my body of work and making larger scale painting around adolescence, culture and Christianity. But honestly, I will only know for sure when I am knee-deep in the project. I’m excited for it though!
Where can we find your work?
You can find my work on my Instagram. Feel free to reach out any time!
