Norval Foundation and The Sovereign Art Foundation (SAF) are delighted to announce Modupeola Fadugba as the Grand Prize Winner for The Norval Sovereign African Art Prize 2025, sponsored by Schroders.
Image: Modupeola Fadugba’s Winning Art Prize
Modupeola Fadugba is a Nigerian artist whose work bridges the worlds of art, science, and social engagement. With a background in chemical engineering and economics, she approaches her art with a structured, analytical mindset, using painting, drawing, and installations to address issues of identity, justice, and human connection. Living and working in Ibadan, Fadugba’s thought provoking pieces offer fresh insights into the complex narratives shaping contemporary Nigeria.
Winning the Grand Prize
Celebrating ten years as an artist, Fadugba presents Portrait Of An Artist At Ease, a striking new acrylic on canvas piece featuring deep black and luminous gold. The artwork evokes mystery and revelation, with the artist emerging ethereally from darkness. Fluid textures and dynamic contrasts symbolise her creative evolution, embodying confidence and self-discovery.
Image: Modupeola Fadugba
Upon the news of her triumph, Modupeola Fadugba had the following to say:
I’m so pleased to be selected as the Grand Prize Winner, amongst many of my peers across the continent. What an absolute honour. I look forward to bringing a beautiful solo exhibition to the Norval Foundation and broader Cape Town community soon. Thank you, to all, for this unexpected gift.”
The FAMM Women’s Awards
The FAMM’s Women awards announcement was made during a private event to celebrate the opening of Billie Zangewa’s exhibition, Breeding Ground, at Norval Foundation. The very first winner of the FAMM Women’s Prize was awarded to DuduBloom More, as the highest rated female artist (excluding the Grand Prize Winner), for her work Contending With Control.
Image: DuduBloom More’s winning Art Work
DuduBloom More will receive US$5,000 and had the following to say of her success:
I am deeply honoured and thankful to receive the FAMM Women’s Prize of The Norval Sovereign African Art Prize 2025 sponsored by Schroders. Being recognised by the judges and FAMM, an organisation that celebrates women artists from around the world, is truly affirming. This award is not only a testament to my work, but also to the incredible contributions of so many who inspire and support me. “
Image: DuduBloom More
All 28 works, including the two winners announced today will be auctioned off online, in a benefit auction hosted by Strauss & Co, open for bidding until 13 March 2025 14h00 SAST: offering the public the chance to own their favourite works. The funds raised by the auction will be split between the artists and the art education mission of the Norval Foundation’s Learning Centre.
