Ken Nwadiogbu (b. 1994, Lagos, Nigeria) is a self taught multidisciplinary artist, based in Lagos, Nigeria. A trained civil engineer, he soon pivoted to fine art, first embracing hyperrealism and charcoal drawing before expanding his creative horizon to more conceptual works and a wider array of techniques, including acrylic painting, sculpture and installation. His works are inspired by iconic American contemporary art figures such as J.-M. Basquiat, Kehinde Wiley, Toyin Ojih Odutola and Kerry James Marshall.
On Nwadiogbu’s large canvases, stories superimpose themselves in multiple layers. Mixing together hyperrealism with contemporary elements, he creates ingenious, politically charged visual illusions that deploy a singular outlook, daring the audience to question their own, for “value lies in the perspective”. Defending an art that can be at once smart and fun, he explores grave matters in intense colors and playful cut-outs, addressing altogether black representation and identity, displacement, and socio-political control.
Popularly known as KenArt, Nwadiogbu is credited for introducing the “Contemporealism” movement and was named by Guardian Life as one of the most “Outstanding Personalities” in Nigeria. In 2019, he was awarded the prestigious The Future Awards Africa in recognition of his contributions to the Nigerian arts community. A core focus for him is to inspire and encourage young creatives. He does this through public speaking and mentorship, as well as through his creative companies. He nurtures an art collective called ‘Title Deed’ and co-found Artists Connect NG, the largest artist gathering in Nigeria, created to foster creativity, collaboration and community.
ARTIST STATEMENT
In my artistic practice, I delve into personal experiences while also offering a social commentary on the experiences of others. Each theme that arises from these experiences play a pivotal role in shaping my creative process. In my work, I embark on a visual exploration, seeking images I capture in London that align with the experiences and challenges faced by black immigrants in the UK. Sometimes staged, sometimes serendipitous, these images play a significant role within my artwork. The composition of these visuals on the canvas is a fluid and ever-evolving process. Through skillful inclusion and omission, I orchestrate a visual narrative that unravels the essence of what is crucial within the image. This process raises questions about the importance of specific elements within the image, what I desire to see within it, and how these choices influence the overall context of the artwork. In essence, I am exploring what holds value in both the image and in life, much like the choices we make regarding where we want to go and whom we want to experience life with.
This exploration also delves into how history is preserved and documented, while examining the individuals who author and shape the information we consume today.