In this episode I speak with Malian-American artist Penda Diakité who grew up between Mali, West Africa and Portland Oregon. Her mixed media artwork, comprises of a variety of painting techniques, paper collage, and hand engraving. She uses the vibrant colors and patterns of her Malian heritage with influences of her American upbringing to create p…

In this episode I speak with Abdur Rahman Muhammad who is a contemporary artist who works and resides in Accra. He has been a practicing artist for over six years with his work exploring the impact that the high unemployment rate has had on Ghanaian youth, particularly through the lens of the overconsumption of Western cultural media. Abdur capture…

In this episode i speak with Jojo Abdallah about his latest exhibition, PSY-TECH. Jojo is an artist whose paintings offer a dialogue between past and present, reality and fantasy. Ranging from Ga culture to the impacts of colonialism and modern governance. His work creates a blend of historical figures, places, and events, reimagined through a lens…

In this episode, I speak with REWA, a remarkable artist whose work captures muses with gazes that invite and intimidate, drawing viewers into a regal, yet quietly commanding presence. Born and raised between Nigeria and England, REWA's art reflects her hybrid upbringing, embodying the modern 'Afropolitan' woman—progressive, self-aware, and deeply r…

In this episode I speak with Amoako Boafo who is celebrated for his captivating portraits that honor and elevate Black figures, carving out a significant place for them in the tradition of portraiture. As a prominent voice in the art of the African Diaspora, Amoako redefines how Black forms are perceived in a global context. His unique approach cha…

In this episode, I speak with Stephen Langa a South African Contemporary Artist from the Limpopo province. His body of work explores diverse stories of black people, experiences of those around him, and personal life journey. His charcoal linework and oil paintings have a mesmerizing effect inspired by his emotive feelings. Stephens' work seeks to …

In this episode, I speak with Donald Tombia a screenwriter from Lagos Nigeria. Donald’s journey is a captivating blend of science and art. He has a professional career in Forensic Computing and Cyber security. He has writing credits on two of the latest TV series on Africa Magic. He is one of the brilliant minds behind the highly acclaimed Slum Kin…

In this episode I speak with Nicole Ocran a mixed-race American fashion blogger living in London. She shares her journey of personal style, fashion trends, and identity through her blog. Nicole's mission is to get to know herself better and build confidence through fashion and beauty. Nicole shares her experiences as a mixed-race individual and the…

In this episode I speak with Cyril France an artist who brings attention to individuals from various socioeconomic backgrounds and highlights underlying political issues, shedding light on marginalized communities. Cyril's portraits capture subjects in a space of ambiguity and poise, prompting viewers to reconsider their visual priorities. His work…

In this episode, I speak with Martha Jackson Jarvis, an acclaimed sculptor whose work has been showcased in numerous exhibitions across the U.S. and internationally. She has received several prestigious awards, including the Creative Capital Grant, the National Endowment for the Arts Fellowship, and the 2024 DAR Women in the Arts Recognition Award.…

In this episode I speak with Wana Udobang a writer, poet, performer, curator, and storyteller with three spoken word albums: Dirty Laundry, In Memory of Forgetting, and Transcendence. Her work has taken her across Africa, Europe, and the US, and she has worked on prestigious commissions for events like the Edinburgh International Festival and The G…

In this episode, I speak with Marcellina a visionary artist from Lagos, Nigeria. Marcellina began her artistic path under the guidance of her father, learning drawing, design, stenciling, writing, and calligraphy before studying Art and Industrial Design at the Lagos State Polytechnic. Marcellina is renowned for her unique style, blending collaging…

In this episode, I speak with Lawrence Maleka, a South African actor and presenter. Best known as the host of Mzansi Magic's reality competition series, Clash of the Choirs South Africa, Lawrence has also co-hosted the AfricaMagic Entertainment show Star Gist and made his mark on community TV with The Gadget Show on Soweto TV. In our conversation, …

In this episode, I speak with Olympia De Maismont a self-taught photo-video reporter based in Burkina Faso. Olympia's keen insight into the local context and passion for storytelling quickly propelled her into the role of a photo-video reporter. As a dedicated freelance journalist, Olympia has covered significant events including various terrorist …

In this episode, I speak with Nafkot a documentary photographer and filmmaker based in Addis Ababa Ethiopia. She's also the co-founder of Studio 11. A vibrant space hosting regular art shows, offering aspiring artists a workplace and a community to learn from. Nafkot speaks about the challenges posed by Ethiopia's current political and social clima…

In this episode, I speak with Noemie Marguerite a Congolese photographer and filmmaker based in Brooklyn, NY. Her work focuses on capturing the “grey area” of life whether it’s capturing a different approach to event photography, revealing a new perspective of an individual through portraiture, or speaking on the vulnerabilities of life through mot…

In this episode I speak with Stanley Lumax the Executive Brand Marketing Director at JP Morgan Chase, overseeing the strategic management of the brand’s prestigious Sapphire and Freedom Unlimited portfolios. Before his current role, Stanley co-founded Climate, an in-house agency at Complex Media Networks, to empower advertisers to leverage youth cu…

In this episode, I speak with London-based digital artist Asiko who uses traditional photography, AI, and digital techniques to create striking mixed-media art. Asiko’s work is deeply embedded in Yoruba culture, particularly through his series “Guardians” and “Of Myth and Legend,” where he brings to life the Òrìshàs—sacred beings with divine attrib…

In this episode, I speak with Toluwani Obayan. A distinguished writer, director, and editor. Her notable works include the short film “Heart & Might,” and the acclaimed 2020 movie “This Lady Called Life,” which earned her the Best of Nollywood 2020 Award for Best Screenplay and an AMVCA nomination for Best Writer. She has also contributed to the aw…

In this episode I speak with Didintle Khunou a highly accomplished South African actor known for her extensive work in screen acting, theater, voice acting, and as a session vocalist. She’s gained significant recognition for playing Celie in "The Color Purple Musical," making history as the first African performer to lead in this role, for which sh…

In this episode, I speak with Denisse a copywriter and photographer whose work revolves around words, people, and images. She crafts compelling narratives for brands through her lens as a photographer. She shares the importance of radical honesty and empathy in her work, and how she uses these values to connect with her subjects. She also explores …

In this episode I speak with Papa Versa a singer-songwriter, rapper, multi-instrumentalist, and producer, He has gained the respect and admiration as one of Ghana’s most versatile artists. Paapa has become known for thoughtful, sincere lyricism in genre-bending music. Born with a terrible stutter, music became his primary mode of expression. His gr…

In this episode, I speak with Tajh Rust. His art deeply interrogates society’s obsessions with tradition and over-consumption and offers a fresh perspective on representation. Tajh shares his background, influences, and artistic process. He talks about the importance of art residencies and his dream collaboration projects. Tajh also shares his expe…

In this episode, I speak with Djakou Kassi Nathalie a renowned ceramic artist from Cameroon. Her career is a testament to her passion, talent, and dedication to the art of ceramics, and her contributions continue to inspire and captivate audiences both at home and around the world. We discuss her journey as a ceramic artist as she shares insights i…

In this episode I speak with Yifan Zhang, whose work is a testament to the power of art to navigate and depict the complexities of cultural identity and personal growth. From an early age, Yifan embraced "carefully made mistakes" as a conduit for creative exploration, leading to the development of a significant body of work titled "Fault Art." His …

In this episode, I speak with Oluwole Omofemi an internationally recognized artist who is from the ancient city of Ibadan. He is mostly known as the last commissioned painting of Queen Elizabeth II before her death. He has held several solo and joint exhibitions both in Nigeria and abroad. Growing up in a challenging environment, Oluwole shares his…

In this episode, I speak with Chenoa Maxwell as she shares her journey from being an actress to becoming a renowned emotional intelligence coach. She emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence in understanding and managing our emotions, building self-awareness, and developing empathy. She also shares tools and techniques for developing emo…

In this episode, I speak with LaTonya Yvette as we explore her daily rituals, motherhood, and the practice of writing. She opens up about the small moments that make a big impact on her craft, the role of fear in the creative process, and the profound influence her mother's legacy left on her. What does it mean to write from a place of healing and …

In this episode, I speak with Richard Nattoo, a distinguished artist from Jamaica. His work has been exhibited at the National Gallery of Jamaica and has been showcased in solo and group exhibitions across the UK and Ireland. Renowned for his unique mastery of watercolors, pen, and ink on canvas, Richard utilizes water from natural sources to bring…

In this episode, I speak with Jonathan Freemantle a distinguished artist whose art is deeply rooted in traditional techniques, yet explores the dynamic relationship between the human form, time, and the natural world. Utilizing unconventional materials like egg tempera and mountain rocks, Jonathan's work seeks to harmonize humanity with the earth. …

In this episode, I speak with Helel Smith to peel back the curtain on the trials of filmmaking in our corner of the world. Helel's candid revelations offer a piercing insight into the high-stakes game of filmmaking. He speaks about the urgency of time and change, framing the artist's journey as a pursuit against the relentless march of the clock. H…

In this episode, I speak with Mariella Franzoni, a Contemporary Art Specialist, Curator, and Consultant with over 15 years of international experience across Spain, Italy, and South Africa. Her diverse career spans academic research, teaching, and various pivotal roles in art organizations and events. Mariella dedicates herself to guiding art colle…

In this episode, I speak with Kunle Afolayan, a celebrated Nigerian filmmaker with an illustrious career in cinema. Kunle has made significant contributions to Nollywood as a director, producer, and actor. Known for acclaimed films like "October 1" and "The Figurine," he's revered for his storytelling and cultural representation. With over two deca…

In this episode I speak with Ella Bulley, a Material Designer known for her unique blend of textiles, products, art, and set design. Through a fusion of in-depth research, material experimentation, and traditional craftsmanship, Ella Bulley's design philosophy acts as a transformative force, turning basic materials into sophisticated designs. Her w…

Discover the vibrant intersections of art and history as we journey through the Investec Cape Town Art Fair with curators Natasha Becker and Amogelang Maledu. The episode unfolds as a rich tapestry woven from their experiences, with Natasha's New York Assembly Room background and Amogelang's profound grasp of South African black popular cultures an…

In this episode, I speak with Terence Maluleke a remarkable Visual Developer and Fine Artist who has collaborated with industry giants like Walt Disney Animation Studios, Sony Pictures Animation, Netflix, and Triggerfish. Terence is also a co-founder of Kasi Sketchbook, an initiative dedicated to establishing drawing clubs in townships. His project…

In this episode, I speak with art curator Larry Ossei-Mensah who works with some of the most dynamic visual artists working today. As part of ongoing conversations on the podcast, we talk about his reflections on the evolving art scene in Ghana and his innovative projects for 2024 that promise to challenge cultural narratives and promote self-repre…

In this episode, I speak with Manjot Kaur, an artist whose work transcends the realms of speculative fiction and ecological narratives. Manjot's art challenges the traditional focus on humans as central figures, exploring the deeper meanings of humanity and its relationship with the non-human world. Her paintings are a journey into a future beyond …

Stephanie Boateng and Kwame Augustine join us to share the captivating journey behind their latest creation, 'Johnny.' This dark comedy-drama mini-series, premiering at Silverbird Cinema in Ghana on Thursday the 11th of January 2024. This episode also opens up a critical dialogue about the broader implications of cross-continental collaborations in…

In this episode I speak with Maria Sosa a visionary artist whose work interrogates the complexities of history and contemporary social dynamics, particularly in the context of the colonization of America. Her art delves into profound themes such as the epistemicide of pre-Hispanic worlds, racism, sexism, and the often overlooked non-Western ways of…

In today’s episode, I’m thrilled to introduce Heather Agyepong, a British Ghanaian visual artist, performer, actor, and maker, based in London. Her art practice, deeply concerned with mental health and wellbeing, the diaspora, combines visual art and performance to create an engaging experience for both herself and her audience. Heather's unique ap…

In this episode I speak with Bonobo Kavula whose art exists between the intersections of painting, printmaking, drawing, and sculpture, pushing the limitations of each. Initially creating the punched circular discs from canvas, Bonolo has moved to using traditional shweshwe cloth, invoking cultural, ancestral, archival and historical connotations s…

In this episode I speak with Natalie Paneng an innovative New Media artist from South Africa whose work embodies a unique blend of awkwardness and complexity, with a distinct quirkiness in her expression. Leveraging her self-acquired digital expertise and her background in theater, Natalie now excels in creating multifaceted digital art. She identi…

In this episode, I speak with Anico Mostert a versatile South African artist known for her multi-disciplinary approach, encompassing ceramics, textile design, animation, and painting. Her art focuses on capturing the quiet, everyday moments, characterized by intuitive processes that allow for vivid colors and playful figures. Anico often draws insp…

Join us as we journey through the captivating world of art and culture with Sean O'Toole, a veteran journalist, writer, and curator for the solo section in the upcoming 11th edition of the Investec Cape Town Art Fair in 2024. Sean gives us a peek behind the curtain of his life and the art world, along with his experience in curating, discussing the…

As we mark the 100th episode, we're honored to welcome a very special guest – my mother. Sharing her entrepreneurial spirit and wisdom, we delve into my vision of creating a mark in the vast world of media, publishing, filmmaking, and music, underpinned by my deep-seated passion for storytelling. Our conversation explores the intricate dance betwee…

Sit back and immerse yourself in a journey with our extraordinary guest, Cierra Chantel. While grappling with the ups and downs of her formative years, Cierra discovered her sanctuary in the written word, eventually molding her into the accomplished spoken word artist she is today. Listen as the conversation unfolds and she sheds light on her early…

Prepare to immerse yourself in the captivating journey of the humble Rwandan artist who defied societal stereotypes, Manzi Leon. With his inspiring story, he'll transport you to the heart of Africa where he began his artistic journey surrounded by color, joy, struggle, and triumph. Listen to Manzi's riveting narration of his early days, the bitter-…

Welcome to an enlightening episode where we journey through the creative path of the exceptionally talented visual artist, Chris Clark. Picture this, a humble artist from Jacksonville, Florida, who's been defying norms, challenging societal stereotypes, and transforming the art landscape since 2016. Now imagine that artist opening up about his fasc…

Get ready for a riveting conversation with the dynamic Tokini Peters-Schebeg! As the founder and CEO of ArtxLagos, the first international art fair of its kind in Africa, Tokini's innovative vision and tenacity have opened a whole new world for art lovers and artists alike. Learn how she navigated her way through tricky fundraising, logistical chal…