WHCY PR MAG talks to NAZQUIAT about the intersection of Digital Art and Emerging Technologies, his AfroTroves NFT Collection, the TYFC Collective he founded, heritage and the art scene in Nigeria.
Youth subcultures, rebellious thinking and community-led movements are the force behind any country’s thriving creative scene. WHCY PR MAG shines light on emerging and blue-chip artists across the world, pushing boundaries and shaping culture with their art.
WHCY PR MAG sits down with multifaceted art creator, curator and entrepreneur Inatimi Nathus aka NAZQUIAT, from Surulere, Lagos, Nigeria, to delve into his work and his vision.
Image courtesy of the artist
Hailing from Surulere, one of the 774 local government areas (LGAs) existing in Nigeria, located in mainland Lagos — the country’s largest city —, in Lagos State, Inatimi Nathus launched the AfroTroves NFT Collection in 2021. Non-Fungible Tokens or NFTs are one of the newly emerged mediums of artistic expression resulting from the blockchain-powered crypto realm. NFTs are assets that have been “tokenized” via blockchain — they are assigned unique identification codes and metadata that distinguish them from other tokens —. Inatimi Nathus’ AfroTroves NFT Collection was born when the artist sadly realized that countless art pieces from his culture, as well as other African tribes have been stolen through time, and stripped off their cultural roots. Inatimi decided to “reclaim the stolen artifacts” bringing them to life in his NFT artworks, while also challenging “prevailing narratives and stereotypes associated with African art”.
The AfroTroves NFT Collection has evolved into a platform to showcase and celebrate the “immense talent of digital artists from across Africa”. Nathus’ Collection has just been exhibited in the Nairobi Design Week that took place in March 2023, in Kenya.
In addition to the AfroTroves NFT Collection, Inatimi Nathus is the founder of the TYFC Collective, a community-driven initiative through which he empowers and uplifts artists and creatives in Nigeria and beyond.
Inatimi Nathus aka NAZQUIAT‘s work shows a relentless pursuit of exploration and a never-ending urge to evolve, pushing the limits of creativity and challenging the societal norms of the world we live in.
When and Where were you born?
I was born in the vibrant city of Surulere, Lagos, on the first of June.
Where are your parents from?
My parents hail from the beautiful Bayelsa State in Nigeria, adding a rich cultural heritage to my upbringing.
Do you remember growing up? When did you start exploring your creative side?
Ah, the memories of my childhood are cherished. It was during those formative years that I discovered my innate creative abilities. I vividly recall the moment I realized I had the gift of drawing and dancing, igniting a passion for artistic expression that has continued to grow throughout my life.
What type of “art” do you make?
My artistic endeavours encompass a diverse range of forms. I thrive in creating captivating graphic designs, mesmerizing motion graphics, captivating photography, immersive video editing, visionary directing, seamless user interface designs, and innovative AI Prompt Engineering. Embracing various mediums allows me to continuously push the boundaries of artistic expression.
Image courtesy of the artist
What is your relationship with music? When did it start?
Music has always held a profound place in my heart and serves as a powerful muse throughout my creative process. Its influence on my artistry began long ago, intertwined with my earliest memories. Music has the extraordinary ability to evoke emotions and set the tone for my artistic endeavours, unlocking new realms of inspiration.
Art has both influenced and been influenced by technology, especially in recent times. What role does technology play in what you do?
Technology serves as an indispensable tool in my artistic journey. It empowers me to experiment, innovate, and breathe life into my visions in ways that were previously unimaginable. Embracing technology allows me to harness its capabilities to enhance my artistic vision, creating awe-inspiring works that push the boundaries of creativity.
Cryptocurrency, blockchain, Web3… Recently, we have seen entrepreneurs and financiers become interested in art. What is an NFT? Why are NFTs important in the art world?
Within the art world, a significant transformation has taken place with the rise of Non-Fungible Tokens, or NFTs. NFTs represent a ground-breaking advancement in the authentication and verification of digital artworks. By utilizing blockchain technology, they revolutionize how we value, buy, and sell digital art, providing a unique medium for artists to express themselves and a gateway for a younger generation to revolutionize and explore the art world.
How did AfroTroves NFT Collection come to life? What’s the purpose?
The birth of the AfroTroves NFT Collection emerged from a profound discovery—a collection of African art stolen from its cultural roots. Inspired and driven, I embarked on a creative journey, dedicating myself to reclaiming the stolen art and celebrating the immense talent of digital artists from across Africa. AfroTroves NFT Collection serves as a platform to showcase and elevate African artists, providing them with exposure, recognition, and economic opportunities while challenging prevailing narratives and stereotypes associated with African art.
Image courtesy of the artist
What is TYFC Collective? Why are “communities” important?
TYFC Collective represents a dynamic and empowering community-driven initiative. It serves as a catalyst for the upliftment and empowerment of creatives. Communities play a pivotal role in the artistic realm by fostering an environment of support, collaboration, and networking. They cultivate a sense of belonging and provide artists with the necessary space to flourish, grow, and establish meaningful connections.
What’s your mission statement?
My mission transcends the boundaries of traditional artistic expression. It encompasses a relentless pursuit to push the limits of creativity, challenge societal norms, and inspire others through my art. My purpose is to create works that resonate with people, spark thought-provoking conversations, and leave a lasting impact on the world.
NAZQUIAT, when did you start using the name? What does it mean?
The inception of the name “Nazquiat” was a pivotal moment in my artistic journey. It symbolizes my artistic identity and pays homage to the legendary Jean-Michel Basquiat, who remains a significant source of inspiration to me. By amalgamating elements of my Nigerian name with Basquiat’s legacy, I strive to embody his bravery and fearlessness in my artistic expression.
As an art creator, curator and entrepreneur, what are the main challenges you face? What is the Nigerian art scene like?
My multifaceted roles as an art creator, curator, and entrepreneur present a myriad of challenges. Navigating the intricacies of the art market, balancing artistic integrity with commercial viability, and securing opportunities for exposure and recognition are among the key hurdles I encounter. The Nigerian art scene is a vibrant tapestry of diverse talent and immense potential. It offers a rich cultural landscape, but also demands perseverance and adaptability to unlock its full potential.
How important is “Economic Capital” to promote culture?
“Economic Capital” plays a pivotal role in promoting and nurturing culture. By providing the necessary resources and support to artists and art institutions, economic capital fuels investment in artistic projects, exhibitions, and infrastructure. It fosters an environment conducive to growth, sustainability, and the flourishing of the cultural sector. Access to ample economic capital can also address the exposure challenges often faced in Nigeria, unlocking doors to a broader audience.
Image courtesy of the artist
Would you be able to recommend 5 Nigerian artists that impacted you in 2022-2023?
Certainly! In the past year, several Nigerian artists have made a profound impact on me. Artists such as Anny Robert, Lemi Ghariokwu, Niyi Okeowo, Show Dem Camp, Osinachi, and Tems have left an indelible mark with their distinct artistry, impeccable craftsmanship, and unwavering dedication. Beyond their creative prowess, these artists have cultivated respected brands known for their remarkable quality, captivating content, and above all, their ability to forge a profound connection with their audience. It is their ability to resonate with their viewers that serves as a constant inspiration for me.
At the time when the BLM protests in 2020 led to a mobilization of Black and PoC activists, especially in Europe, the #EndSARS movement was experiencing a revitalization in Nigeria. Do you think art can be used as a “tool of resistance”?
Without a doubt, art has always been a formidable tool of resistance and social commentary. It possesses the innate ability to raise awareness, provoke critical thought, and challenge the status quo. The revitalization of the #EndSARS movement in Nigeria demonstrated the transformative power of art as a potent means of expression, solidarity, and amplification of marginalized voices. Art, as a tool of resistance, has the potential to spark change, foster social movements, and inspire the world.
Are there any exhibitions, museums or organizations that you would love to work with?
The art world is filled with numerous exhibitions, museums, and organizations that resonate with me deeply. Collaborating with institutions such as Show Dem Camp, Art X, Nike, Saatchi Art, Red Bull, Artsy, BetterShared, Retro Gallery, SuperRare, and Foundation would be a dream come true. Each of these entities possesses a unique vision and dedication to promoting artistic excellence, making them ideal partners for my artistic endeavours.
Image courtesy of the artist
What’s next for NAZQUIAT?
For NAZQUIAT, the future shines brightly with endless possibilities. I envision a path of continued growth, exploration, and collaboration. Fuelled by an unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of my creativity, I eagerly embrace opportunities to engage with diverse audiences and utilize my platform to amplify underrepresented voices. With every step, I strive to evolve as an artist, leaving an indelible mark on the art world and transcending my wildest dreams, as I spread my artistry and passion for design beyond traditional boundaries, embracing new horizons and creating masterpieces that surpass all expectations.