Chris Ofili Exhibition at Tate Britain

Tate Britain presents a major exhibition by British painter, and former Turner prize-winner, Chris Ofili.

About Chris Ofili

Ofili is one of the few British artists of African/Caribbean descent to break through as a member of the Young British Artists (YBAs). He's noted for artworks referencing aspects of his Nigerian heritage.

Ofili's artworks are intensely coloured with rich layering and show an inventive use of mixed media – glitter, resin, map pins and... elephant dung!

In 1998, Ofili won the Turner Prize. Later, in 2003, he was selected to represent Britain at the Venice Biennale, where his work for the British Pavilion was done in collaboration with the architect David Adjaye.

Highlights of the Chris Ofili Exhibition at Tate Britain

The following works, which highlight Chris Ofili's inventiveness and experimentation, are appearing at the London exhibition. Look out for Ofili's fusion of hip-hop culture, spirituality, folklore and nature in:

• Afrodizzia (2nd version) 1996
• The Holy Virgin Mary 1996
• Blossom 1997
• No Woman, No Cry 1998

The Upper Room 1999-2002 at Tate Britain

Tate Britain's exhibition will include The Upper Room 1999-2002, a large-scale installation of 13 canvases, in a special walnut panelled room designed by the architect David Adjaye.

In this darkened, chapel-like room are 13 paintings of rhesus macaque monkeys, in bold colours and individually spot-lit to make them radiant and eye-catching.

Chris Ofili: From London to Trinidad

Ofili moved from London to Trinidad in 2005. This exhibition looks at the developments in Ofili's art since the move. His recent works show inspiration from sensual and Biblical themes, and an interest in Trinidad's landscape and mythology. Works on display include:

• Strangers from Paradise 2007 – 2008
• Iscariot Blues 2006
• The Raising of Lazarus 2007
• The Healer 2008

Tate Britain will be unveiling several new canvases, making this the most comprehensive presentation of Chris Ofili's work to date.