Ukandi Atsu (b.1991) is a Self-Taught Nigerian artist whose practice delves into the
deconstruction of identities. His works seek to address identity crisis inherent in modern
African societies. He is also interested in representation as he uses local materials (both
physical and digital) to create narratives that address gender and racial discrimination,
political instability and confront historical narratives all from the standpoint of a Nigerian
living in Nigeria.
Although a graduate of the University of Abuja with a Bachelors degree in Political Science,
He has always been drawn to the Creative Arts and has always shown promise and interest in
expressing his ideas through available mediums .Ukandi artistic journey can be said to have
officially begun in 2016 after his university education with photography as his primary
medium; he has since then explored and pushed the boundaries of his use of the medium andhis overall ideas.
One exciting aspect of Ukandi’s Art is his openness to experiment with broad ideas such as
abstract and figurative ideas, surrealism, cubism etc or whatever helps him best express the
ideas he tries to portray.
Ukandi believes that photography as a medium of Art should be fully utilised in all its artistic
dimensions even beyond merging the medium with new and external mediums without
limitations.
My artwork strives to capture the essence of genuine human connection. I don't focus on
portraying specific individuals, but rather the energy that arises when diverse experiences
collide.
The choice of medium plays a crucial role in expressing this theme. I gravitate towards the
richness of oil pastels and chalk pastels. Their ability to blend allows for a seamless merging
of colours, mirroring the way our lives comes together. Charcoal, with its bold strokes and
subtle smudges, adds a touch of rawness against the colours, echoing the vulnerability we
share in true connection. Finally, the vibrancy of acrylics injects a sense of energy and
optimism, reminding us of the beauty that emerges when we connect.
These mediums, used together or individually, become a bridge between my memories and
the canvas. They allow me to translate the forgotten art of in-person connection into a visual
language, a reminder of the simple joys found in shared experiences.