Collection: Samuel Ukpahi (Foreversammy)

Galactic Panther is proud to present Samuel Ukpahi (a.k.a. Foreversammy, b. June 23, 1995) in his first U.S. exhibit. Ukpahi is a self-taught Nigerian visual artist who paints predominantly with oils.

Born in Northern Nigeria (Zaria Kaduna State), his childhood was tumultuous and affected by several religious crises happening in northern Nigeria, some of which are still ongoing. This kept his family on the move. Ukpahi studied Chemistry at the Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, but now lives and works as a full time studio artist in Abuja, the country’s capital.

Samuel Ukpahi says his journey as an artist has been a “rollercoaster”. Despite facing resistance from his dad who never wanted him to be an artist, he discovered his gift at a very young age. Initially art was a medium he used to manage depression and anxiety but it has metamorphosed into a career and a medium to “speak up, and also to bring calm to the world”.

Samuel describes himself as “a soul deeply entwined with the threads of creativity, self discovery, transformation, and energy exchange with the universe”. Each piece he creates is a fragment of his journey through self-discovery, echoing his love for “art that connects, heals, and reveals”. His life is a testament to the belief that “art is not just what we see but it is who we are. Every interaction is an opportunity to learn, grow and inspire!” Ukpahi goes on to state, “This body of work is our collective reality. When you stare at (these) paintings, I implore you to look within you too…”