1966 | Stanley Onah I Original Oil Painting

£3,150.00

Original Oil and oil Pastel On Linen Lined Board, Tray Framed

Size: 100cm x 100cm x 4.8cm

Part of the “From Ancient Braids, To Contemporary Fades” Collection 2025

In 1966, Stanley Onah reaches back to a pivotal year in modern history — a time when Black identity was being reclaimed and redefined in the face of systemic oppression. The figure before us, his locs worn with quiet pride, embodies both defiance and dignity. Around him, symbolic forms and ancestral motifs weave through the composition, evoking the genetic and cultural lineage that sustains him.

Through Onah’s rich visual language, the work becomes both portrait and testament. The locs, rendered as living strands of history, connect the subject to generations past — a reminder that style, for many, has always been a statement of resistance and self-possession. Within the From Ancient Braids to Contemporary Fades series, 1966 stands as a visual bridge: between heritage and hope, between the suppressed and the self-defined.

Original Oil and oil Pastel On Linen Lined Board, Tray Framed

Size: 100cm x 100cm x 4.8cm

Part of the “From Ancient Braids, To Contemporary Fades” Collection 2025

In 1966, Stanley Onah reaches back to a pivotal year in modern history — a time when Black identity was being reclaimed and redefined in the face of systemic oppression. The figure before us, his locs worn with quiet pride, embodies both defiance and dignity. Around him, symbolic forms and ancestral motifs weave through the composition, evoking the genetic and cultural lineage that sustains him.

Through Onah’s rich visual language, the work becomes both portrait and testament. The locs, rendered as living strands of history, connect the subject to generations past — a reminder that style, for many, has always been a statement of resistance and self-possession. Within the From Ancient Braids to Contemporary Fades series, 1966 stands as a visual bridge: between heritage and hope, between the suppressed and the self-defined.

  • Native Londoner, Onah’s practice is influenced by his blended British/Nigerian heritage – exuding a strength and grit that speaks to London’s underground art scene. His use of colour and understanding of light oozes connections to the rich tapestry and texture of traditional Nigerian art. His portraits, often starkly back-lit or drenched in a ‘golden hour’ haze allow him to capture a pure emotive dialogue with the viewer.

    Onah’s early fascination with comic book artistry is prevalent in his works with a clear nod to artists such as Frank Miller & Dave Gibbons; this marriage of polar aesthetics have allowed Onah to shape an unmistakable visual identity evident in each painting.

    Onah’s latest series delves deep into the human psyche, reflecting the intricate emotional landscape experienced in the aftermath of trauma. Drawing from both personal and observed encounters, the artist invites viewers on a journey of contemplation, welcoming them in, to explore life’s profound questions and discover beauty within the depths of the human spirit.

  • We take pride in offering worldwide shipping.

    Our commitment is to dispatch all orders within 24 hours of purchase. If you're in the UK, expect a delivery window of 48 hours, though next-day delivery is the norm. For our international friends, anticipate a delivery window of 5-10 working days.

    Rest assured, all items are sent with tracking information for your peace of mind.

    Simply add your address at checkout and shipping costs will be automatically generated for you.

  • We want you to be happy with your purchase! If for any reason you need to return your item(s), you have a generous 14-day window from the date of purchase. Feel free to send the returns to Adorn The Common, 157 Regents Park Road, London, NW1 8BB. Please note, the cost of the return shipping will be your responsibility. Thank you for understanding