Cyril Emmanuel

Cyril Oluwamuyiwa Emmanuel alias X the Villain, is a contemporary conceptual and performance artist based in Lagos, Nigeria. Drawing heavily from his Yoruba heritage and Egyptian ancestry, Cyril's work is deeply rooted in culture, reflected in his use of palm oil for paintings, and charcoal for sculptures.

Self-taught and inspired by Leonardo da Vinci, Tehching Hsieh, Yinka Shonibare, and Jean Michel Basquiat, Cyril developed a distinctive style that explores African identities, cultures, and global history. His artworks often depict society's outcasts, addressing themes such as identity crisis, discrimination, and mental health. As an advocate for human rights and environmental sustainability, he aims to create immersive and interactive experiences accessible to all, including individuals with disabilities.

In the realm of performance art, X the Villain’s work is a visceral exploration of societal fractures caused by discrimination, racism, and segregation. He immerses himself in the raw narratives of these issues, pushing the boundaries of performance art to provoke profound introspection. Through his performances, he aspires to dismantle preconceptions, instigate uncomfortable conversations, and inspire collective reckoning wi...

Self taught / B.Sc. Mechanical engineering from Obafemi Awolowo university

Group exhibition at Alte Culture Festival 2023
Group exhibition at Shodex art gallery 2023
Solo exhibition at X studios 2025