b. 1961, Zaria, Nigeria Lives and works in Lagos, Nigeria Sam Ovraiti is a distinguished Nigerian artist renowned for his mastery of color and light. Born in 1961 in Zaria, Kaduna State, he pursued his artistic education at the Federal Polytechnic, Auchi, graduating in 1983. He furthered his studies at the University of Benin, earning a Master of Fine Arts degree. Ovraiti's early career was marked by his role as a lecturer at Auchi Polytechnic, where he trained and mentored numerous emerging artists. In the 1980s, Ovraiti gained prominence as one of Nigeria's foremost watercolorists. His works from this period are characterized by subtle, refined depictions of the Auchi landscape, capturing scenes of livestock, idyllic houses, farms, and market women. These watercolors were noted for their peaceful and contemplative nature, offering a dreamlike representation of rural life. In 1993, Ovraiti relocated to Lagos to focus on his art full-time. He expanded his repertoire to include oils and mixed media, continuing his exploration of color and its profound effect on consciousness. His later works often depict the landscapes and seascapes of Lagos, as well as its inhabitants, maintaining his commitment to the expressive use of color. Ovraiti is also recognized for his involvement in the Harmattan Workshop, a platform for artistic collaboration and development. He has served as the artistic director, coordinating workshops that foster creative exchange among artists. His contributions to the art community extend beyond his own practice, as he continues to mentor and inspire new generations of artists. His works have been exhibited in numerous solo and group exhibitions both in Nigeria and internationally. Ovraiti's commitment to artistic excellence and his innovative use of color have solidified his reputation as a leading figure in contemporary African art.