Ekene Emeka Maduka

"I committed to art because it was one of the most prominent things in my surroundings as a child – my mother being an interior designer, my father an architect. Still, I remember my mother’s fabrics and my father’s drawings in my mind years later."

"Because “dreams” are supposedly uncanny and impossible. My piece Tortoise and the birds opens the conversation about experiencing cultural amnesia which colonized peoples often experience. It also highlights hindrances that result from loss of cultural queues and history."

"When it comes to people, I am inspired specifically by people who exist transparently and are passionate to see others and allow space for them to speak their truths without interruption."

"I believe my identity is informed and evolves through learning and existing."

"“When the work is rich and has well thought out intentions, it will make its way to the places it will.”"

"“I think interest will only continue to grow as the art world learns that Africa is a huge continent with a huge variety of cultures and stories and people.”"