CONDUCTOR Conversation: Njideka Akunyili Crosby and Modupeola Fadugba

Powerhouse Arts is thrilled to welcome renowned artist Njideka Akunyili Crosby and CONDUCTOR participant Modupeola Fadugba as they engage in dialogue about the importance of mentorship, support, and exchange between artists. Having first met at the esteemed ART X LAGOS fair in Nigeria in 2017, the two artists instantly connected thanks to their shared experiences as students and artists in Nigeria and the United States. Akunyili Crosby ultimately suggested that Modupeola come to New York City to take part in the amazing ISCP artist residency program, which she herself had done years before. The two have stayed in touch ever since, and will share their insights on art, life, family, and community in this intimate conversation.*

* This talk will take place in our Small Hall—there is limited capacity, so it requires separate registration from CONDUCTOR, but the talk will also be simulcast in the Grand Hall during CONDUCTOR.

LOCATION
Powerhouse Arts’ Small Hall
322 3rd Ave., Brooklyn, NY
Lenapehoking

Bios:
Njideka Akunyili Crosby was born in Enugu, Nigeria in 1983 and currently lives and works in Los Angeles. She was a participant in La Biennale di Venezia, 58th International Art Exhibition, May You Live In Interesting Times, curated by Ralph Rugoff (11 May – 24 November 2019). She is the recipient of an Honorary Doctorate of Fine Arts Degree from University of the Arts (2020) and Otis College (2024), an Honorary Doctorate of Art from Swarthmore College (2019), a MacArthur Fellowship (2017), and a United States Artist Fellowship (2021). Akunyili Crosby’s work is held in significant museum collections worldwide.
Photo: Shaughn and John

Modupeola Fadugba is a multimedia artist who merges the analytical rigor of engineering and economics with the creative power of painting, drawing, and socially engaged installations. Through themes of game theory, cultural identity, and collective memory, she explores social justice and community. Her accolades include the Norval Sovereign African Art Prize (2025), El Anatsui’s Outstanding Production Prize (2014), an Emmy Award (2022), and the Grand Prize at the Dakar Biennale (2016). Fadugba’s work has been exhibited internationally and is held in major collections including the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art and the Minneapolis Institute of Art.