Ken Nwadiogbu

Speaking about his own work, Nwagiogbu explains: '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.

I commence my creative process by exploring abstract expression, employing
vibrant primary colors such as red, blue, green and yellow. This particular
color palette evokes a profound sense of nostalgia, as it reminds me of home
and the emotions associated with it. Engaging with my work at this stage
becomes a transformative and cathartic experience, serving as both a
performance and a therapeutic outlet.

As I progress, I embark on a visual exploration of my memories, 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.

Furthermore, the palette I employ draws strong inspiration from thermographic cameras, which detect heat energy through infrared radiation. This aesthetic choice allows me to represent these experiences as memories that carry an enduring energy that transcends the confines of time and space. As energy cannot be created nor destroyed, our experiences become memories that profoundly influence our perception and approach to life.
In some sense, this body of work delves into the intricate fabric of memory
and its ephemeral nature. Memories, we find, are not faithfully preserved in
their entirety, but rather exist as fragments, lingering remnants of experiences
that continue to shape our reality.

With my art, I strive to capture the deep interconnections between personal
encounters, broader social issues, and the pervasive energy that
accompanies them. It is through this exploration that I aim to stimulate
thought, provoke introspection, and foster meaningful connections with
viewers.'