Soldier is Setting a New Pace in Contemporary Art and Cultural Expression
Leonard Iheagwam, professionally known as Soldier, uses a maximalist approach to his work with a distinctive and intense palette which makes him stand out as a contemporary artist. Born and raised in Lagos, Soldier’s eclectic art pieces were greatly influenced by his early childhood, which helped shape his view of the world.
Exploring themes of the Nigerian creative culture, Soldier uses an unusual art style to take his viewers into a realm of introspection. His use of soldier toys or their figures in most of his works is a recurring innovative style that has become somewhat a signature to all his works, earning him the witty ‘Soldier boyfriend’ nickname.
Contemporary art, usually criticised for lacking intentionality, vulnerability, and mastery, is carefully redefined by Soldier’s vulnerability and intentionality through his piece of work. His work tells tales of the Nigerian culture, serves as a socio-cultural critique, and changes the definition of what the world labels contemporary art—a splash of paint on canvas. His recent paintings Your Cross to Bear, Your Sins Are Forgiven, and The River incorporate over 5000 soldier toys as a medium that represents the gut-wrenching effects of war in Nigeria, symbolising the countless lives lost to human greed.
In addition, his love for skate culture and need to create change through art inspired his limited skate decks in support of Nigeria’s first skate shop by wafflesNcream, actively making a difference through skate and art.
Moreover, his recent paintings exhibited at the Hublot London further show his wonderful creative projects and art collections as he continues to make a name for himself in the art world.
COMISSIONED WORK AND COLLABORATIONS
LOUIS VUITTON
Soldier was commissioned by Louis Vuitton to create a distinctive piece for the luxury brand‘s Spring/Summer 2024 collection. Fusing vibrant floral elements and architectural design, he reflects a unique intersection of nature and urban scenery. The bold and colourful composition brings a fresh aesthetic to Lois Vuitton’s iconic style with Soldier’s creative vision. This collaboration shows Soldiers love for fashion and art while highlighting the brand’s commitment to support emerging artists.
NIKE
Displayed at Nike’s car boot space, Soldier’s evocative installation of Ghana must-go bags on a Toyota Celica speaks to the social and cultural issues. He explores the powerful symbol of migration and displacement in West Africa, drawing attention to the share of individuals uprooted from their homes and embarking on journeys in search of a better life.
GLASTONBURY FESTIVAL
His impactful collaboration with the Glastunbory Festival, one of the world’s most iconic music festivals, showcases his unique artistic style. Creating eclectic figures on a plane, he merged his bold and maximalist designs with the festival’s vibrant, electric energy.
As Soldier’s portfolio grows, so does his influence on the art community; his keen eye for detail and inspiring approach to storytelling have changed the trajectory of contemporary art, and he will continue to do so. His vision remains to: use his art to create change, provoke thought, and redefine creative expression.
