Tony Ojo Ogogo was a renowned ceramist and industrial designer who became the director and co-ordinator of the artistic group – Heritage Ceramics. Born in Nigeria in Benin City in 1953, Ogogo studied at the Lowestoft College of Further Education in the UK, gaining a Certificate in Industrial Ceramics in1979 followed by a BA in ceramics from the Central School of Art & Design, London,1980. In 1982 he undertook training in hereditary Bini arts and craft in Benin City.
From 1982-1983, Ogogo lectured in ceramics at Oyo College of Education, Oyo State in Nigeria and then founded and was the Artistic Director of Heritage Ceramics in Southall, London from1984. He presented workshops on pottery, the role of artists in African society, the significance of sculptural forms in Bini religion, and African music and dance. He participated in outreach programs in schools, community centres, educational institutions and galleries throughout the UK.
His exhibitions include Focus on Africa at the Commonwealth Institute Art Gallery, London, 1986; The Direct Design Show, Alexandra Palace Exhibition Centre, London, 1987.
Tony Ogogo sadly passed away, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and enrich the artistic landscape through pottery and his promotion of African art and culture.
Refs: Diaspora-artists: View details; OGOGO, Tony – Biographical Legacy and Research Foundation (blerf.org); Interpreting Ceramics : issue 16 – Dora Bilington: From Arts and Crafts to Studio Pottery
Image credit: Traditional African Theatre, Storytelling, Drama, Music and Dance | IROKO Theatre Company
