By Ghazali Ibrahim
Nigerian visual artist Habeeb Andu has earned the coveted Bev Morton & Wayne Arthur Award for Mixed Media at the Manitoba Society of Artists (MSA) 2025 Open Juried Competition & Exhibition.
The accolade, awarded for his compelling piece titled “Displacement List II (Theatre of War),” signifies a major international milestone in his creative journey.
The award, selected by a panel of esteemed jurors, celebrates Andu’s ability to harness mixed media to initiate powerful dialogues about education, justice, and resilience.
Andu’s recognition at MSA is the latest in a string of international accolades.
He won the Access ART X Prize in November 2017 for his work “Blacklist”, underscoring his rising influence on the African art scene.
In a 2019 interview, Andu reflected on how the Access ART X Prize catapulted his career, providing greater visibility for his art and themes.
Born in Lagos, Andu studied painting and earned his Higher National Diploma from Auchi Polytechnic.
Over the years, he has become known for bold, thought-provoking installations and mixed-media works that tackle socio-political themes.
Andu expressed gratitude upon receiving the MSA award, thanking the jurors and the Manitoba Society of Artists for the platform to continue meaningful conversations through his art:
“Honoured to receive the Bev Morton and Wayne Arthur Award… grateful for the recognition and for the platform to continue conversations on education, justice, and resilience through art,” he said in a public statement.
This latest honour further cements Andu’s reputation as a leading voice in African contemporary art, recognized both continentally and internationally.
