Nwagbara did not study visual art in school, in fact, he read accounting and he was a banker for almost a decade. He left his banking job after he got tired of the daily routine.
After working briefly in another sector, he left again to focus on art. He understudied artists such as, Olu Ajayi, Edosa Ogiugo after meeting them during a show. He was invited by Ogiugo and his journey started. He met other masters such as Abiodun Olaku and others.
“Odyssey is a journey and the show talks about my journey, so far. Most of the works I am exhibiting are old, they are mostly works I did when I was in Universal Studio of Art,” he said.
“The foundation of who you are shows in your solo I have participated in several group shows. I appreciate Universal Studio for who I am today and I am most grateful to Ogiugo. My journey with Mydrim has been a roller coaster and it has been seamless.”
When asked of the technique he’s known for, he said: “I am not a fan of a technique. I’m an artist and I always paint from the heart; sometimes, I paint wet-on-wet, and sometimes, I decide to adopt other forms.”
Speaking on the work that gave him sleepless nights, he said: “A Nation and Its People 1. It tells the story of Africa and its leaders. The leaders read and hear about what is going on, but they do whatever they like. They are filled with selfishness and greed; they lack compassion.”
Speaking also, assistant curator, Mydrim Gallery, Idowu Bankole, “Nwagbara works are outstanding.
I asked him how he did it, when he brought the works to the gallery. His works are detailed and captivating. The Aso Ebi Ladies is fantastic. He has a way of treating all his work perfectly and it amazes me how his works have an illustrious appearance. He pays attention to details. Not all artists can sit down to put in this level of effort. Young artists must learn from him because they don’t have the patience to put in the work. Priceless Odyssey shows Nwagbara years of experience.
He has been a friend of the Gallery for a long time and we are happy to host him.”
