Njideka Akunyili Crosby Listed Among 2017 MacArthur Fellows To Be Supported With $625,000 Grant

Njideka Akunyili Crosby, an artist and the daughter of former Nigerian minister, Dora Akunyili has been awarded the esteemed Mac Arthur Fellowship alongside 23 others.

According to the foundation, the award is given to individuals who have shown extraordinary originality and dedication in their creative pursuits.

It is also intended to encourage people of outstanding talent to pursue their own creative, intellectual and professional preference.

Described as a figurative painter, Njideka’s work often references her African heritage and frequently shows her experiences in the United States and the point of contact where both cultures meet.

The Fellowship supports their recipients with a stipend of $625,000 paid out in installments over five years.

Watch her talk about her work here.