Andrew Esiebo

ABOUT

Andrew Esiebo, born in Lagos, Nigeria, is an acclaimed visual storyteller known for his compelling photographic narratives. He began his career documenting Nigeria’s rapid urbanisation and dynamic cultural landscapes, later evolving into multimedia and video reportage that delve into complex subjects like sexuality, gender politics, and migration. His work has garnered prestigious accolades, including the Visa Pour La Création Prize from France’s Institut Français and the Artistic Creation Prize from Musée du Quai Branly.

Esiebo’s photographs have been exhibited at international venues such as the São Paulo Biennial and Tate Modern and have appeared in publications like National Geographic and The New York Times.

Esiebo’s photographic narratives have achieved global recognition, showcasing his unique ability to capture social realities.

His powerful storytelling has not only won him prestigious awards but also positioned him as a respected figure in the international photography scene. He continues to make a significant impact through exhibitions, publications, and collaborative projects.

Andrew Esiebo Sample 1
A sorter unloads waste tires at a Mile 12 dumpsite in Lagos for recycling by industries extracting petrochemicals.
Andrew Esiebo Sample 2
Taking naps on used tires used to demarcate a football pitch in Lagos.

Dedicated to nurturing the next generation of visual storytellers, Esiebo actively mentors emerging photographers and leads workshops worldwide.

His collaborations with renowned institutions, including National Geographic and the Red Cross, have helped inspire and develop aspiring photographers, fostering a supportive environment for creative growth and expression.

Andrew Esiebo’s project “Pneumacity: A Tire New Dies” explores the lifecycle of tires in Lagos, from roadside repair to diverse reincarnations or disposal. It highlights the environmental challenges posed by non-degradable tyres and the potential of recycling, such as their transformation into playground tiles. In Lagos, tyres are continually repurposed, becoming valuable items or utilities like display stands and markers. “Pneumacity” documents this circular economy, emphasising tire-related labour, their integration into street life, and how they contribute to Lagos’s economy and ecology. Through this project, Esiebo captures the intricate relationship between waste and resourcefulness, underscoring the resilience and adaptability inherent in Lagosian culture.