Ghanaian Canadian artist Ekow Nimako, aged 42, has carved a unique path in the world of Lego sculptures. Unlike traditional Lego creations, Nimako’s works go beyond mere toys or hobbies, showcasing his skill in fine art. With a focus on Black art, he exclusively employs black Lego bricks to construct intricate sculptures that represent the Black experience.
Nimako embarked on his Lego sculpting journey in 2012, but it was in 2014 that his career gained momentum. He received a grant to exhibit his work in Canada during Black History Month, prompting him to realize the importance of creating specifically Black art.
His preference for black Lego bricks stems from three key factors. Firstly, black is a widely available color, providing him with an extensive range of Lego pieces to choose from. Secondly, he appreciates the aesthetic qualities of black, with its sophistication, expansiveness, and intriguing depth. Lastly, using black Lego bricks ensures that the beings he sculpts are unequivocally Black, regardless of their features or modifications.
Nimako’s sculptures reflect the essence of life, despite being made of plastic. He meticulously crafts each piece, dedicating ample time to perfecting the eyes and infusing his creations with a lifelike quality. The construction of a single sculpture can take anywhere from 50 to 800 hours, a testament to Nimako’s meticulous approach and refusal to rush the artistic process. As he continues to explore new Lego pieces and experiment with different techniques, he anticipates that the time required for each artwork will increase.
As a “futurist,” Nimako draws inspiration from Africanfuturism, Afrofuturism, and Afrofantasy. Africanfuturism focuses on the experiences of those on the African continent, while Afrofuturism delves into the African American perspective, incorporating elements of history and the future while connecting with the African continent.
Nimako’s notable series, “Building Black: Civilizations,” reimagines medieval sub-Saharan African narratives. One remarkable piece, “Kumbi Saleh 3020 CE,” currently displayed at the Aga Khan Museum in Toronto, envisions the capital city of a medieval Ghanaian kingdom a millennium into the future. Through his art, Nimako aims to foster an inclusive future that acknowledges the history of anti-Black racism and embraces Afrofuturism as a means to envision a better world.
In addition to his physical creations, Nimako has launched online kits for his “Building Beyond” workshop. These kits allow individuals to construct Lego representations of their own descendants using facial templates called “legacies.” This initiative aims to promote cultural sensitivity and understanding among diverse communities.
Nimako’s remarkable work has garnered attention not only from the art world but also from Lego itself. A Lego documentary highlighting his creations was released in February 2022, showcasing the company’s support for his unique artistry. Nimako is currently working on a sculpture titled “The Great Turtle Race,” which captures the essence of childhood as Black children race on the backs of two mythical turtles.
Nimako’s art serves as a form of resistance and expression. By immersing himself in the complexities, nuances, and cultural explorations of Black art, he brings joy to Black children who can see themselves reflected in his creations. Through his innovative Lego sculptures, Nimako invites viewers to appreciate the beauty and significance of Black art and encourages them to envision a more inclusive and harmonious future.
