b. 1982, Port-Harcourt, Nigeria

ruby onyinyechi amanze’s practice consists of large-scale drawings on paper that explore the magical potential of space. Her work focuses on the delicate balance between physical magnitude and aesthetic weightlessness. Using seven recurring elements, amanze designs minimal spatial interactions that imagine alternative ways of movement through space.

Rooting her research in the dimensional languages of architecture, design and dance, amanze creates three-dimensional drawings that challenge traditional perceptions of the medium. In addition to her drawing practice, amanze creates temporary dance companies to choreograph and perform a ‘first and last’ work before dissolution. Previous companies include The Deck; performing tell me a way you pretend to be strong [2021] and Sin Red Laboratoria de Danza; performing silence is not the end [2025].

amanze holds a B.F.A. from Tyler School of Art, Temple University [2004, Summa cum laude] and an M.F.A. from Cranbrook Academy of Art [2006]. Her work has been included in the 33rd Bienal de São Paulo as well as numerous exhibitions and programs at The Drawing Room and Drawing Center in London and New York, respectively. She has exhibited her work globally in Paris, Johannesburg, Seoul and Lagos.

Her work became a permanent fixture of New York City’s public art landscape following a 2025 Metropolitan Transportation Authority commission. In addition, her drawings have been collected by the Smithsonian, Deutsche Bank, New Orleans Museum of Art, The Hessel Museum of Art and the Studio Museum of Harlem.

amanze is a life-long athlete. This detail is important to everything.