Nigerian visual artist Reuben Ugbine Karo is preserving his late father's artistic legacy through archival documentation and a planned Adire clothing brand inspired by his work.
-- NIGERIA, — November 9, 2026 — Reuben Ugbine Karo, visual artist and son of the late Nigerian sculptor Reuben Ugbine, is leading efforts to preserve his father's artistic legacy through archival documentation, historical research and public access to information about his career.
Reuben Ugbine (1956–2021) worked in figurative sculpture, wood carving and terracotta. His work was exhibited in Nigeria and abroad, and the British Museum acquired one of his pieces in 2018. He was associated with the Society of Nigerian Artists and the Guild of Professional Fine Artists of Nigeria.
Preserving Nigeria's Artistic Heritage
Reuben Ugbine Karo is documenting the stories behind his father's sculptures, safeguarding surviving archival materials and helping researchers, students and collectors access reliable information.
In July 2026, he told Vanguard that “Nigeria’s artistic heritage must be preserved for future generations,” emphasizing the importance of understanding artists who shaped Nigeria's creative industry.
“My father devoted his life to his art, creating works that tell stories about our people, our culture and our identity,” says Reuben Ugbine Karo.
His approach distinguishes documented historical information from personal memories, supporting an accurate record of his father's contributions.
Continuing Creativity Through Art and Fashion
Raised around his father's studio, Reuben Ugbine Karo developed his own artistic career in painting, interior art installations and visual storytelling. Through KU Originals Limited and Mural Planet, he undertakes creative projects for residential and commercial spaces.
His artistic career and preservation efforts received coverage from Vanguard, ThisDay, P.M. News and Independent in July 2026.
He is also preparing the Reuben Ugbine Collection, an Adire fabric print clothing brand inspired by his father's artistic style. Adire, a traditional resist-dyed textile from southwestern Nigeria, will connect the sculptor's artistic influence with contemporary fashion.
The collection aims to introduce his father's creative legacy to audiences beyond traditional galleries. No official launch date has been announced.
About Reuben Ugbine Karo
Reuben Ugbine Karo is a Nigerian visual artist and creative entrepreneur specializing in painting, interior art installations and visual storytelling. Through KU Originals Limited and Mural Planet, he develops creative projects while leading his family's efforts to document and preserve his father's legacy.
About Reuben Ugbine
Reuben Ugbine (1956–2021) was a Nigerian sculptor born in Anponya, Ghana, to Nigerian parents. He studied at Auchi Polytechnic and Yaba College of Technology, taught at Auchi Polytechnic and established Creative Hands studio in Benin City in 1987. His artistic career spanned more than four decades.
For more information, visit: https://gallerybyreubenugbine.com/
Contact Info:
Name: Reuben Ugbine Karo
Email: Send Email
Organization: Reuben Ugbine Estate
Phone: +2349034652289
Website: https://gallerybyreubenugbine.com
Release ID: 89209033
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