Nacha Kama is a Nigerian-American multidisciplinary artist. She is partly from Delta State. However, her father is from Adamawa State.
[ad]
She is a multi-faceted artist and champion of equality, whose creativity and dedication extend far beyond the canvas. Renowned for her captivating beauty and brilliance, Nacha is a force to be reckoned with in the artistic realm, earning recognition as a ‘creative genius’ and photographer.

Her artistic journey began in 2006, at York College of the City University of New York (CUNY), where she earned a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) in Information Systems Management with a minor in Studio Arts. Photography became her primary focus, and she generously shared her passion by tutoring pinhole, black and white, and digital photography to friends, family, and high school students.

Over the years, Kama’s talents have garnered recognition on the national and international stage. Her photography and visual art have been showcased in both solo and group shows in New York, and she has collaborated with groundbreaking legendary photographers on several projects.
A major point of her career was her collaboration with the legendary photographer, Pa J.D. Okhai Ojeikere, in 2013.

Driven by her own vision, Kama sculpted hairstyles from her imagination, sketching blueprints on a drawing pad and bringing them to life with the help of skilled hairstylists. Her signature creation, ‘Shuku Nacha’, was a towering masterpiece that resembled an Eiffel Tower rising from her scalp. This head-turning piece earned her the nickname ‘Walking Eiffel Tower’ and exemplifies her innovative spirit and artistic boldness. Notably, one of her designs was featured in his second book, ‘Ojeikere’.

In 2016, Nacha’s artistic trajectory took a significant upward turn. Her work was selected for inclusion in a group alumni exhibition at the prestigious York College Art Gallery, marking a notable accomplishment early in her artistic career. This recognition caught the attention of the Provost and Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs, who were deeply impressed by the talent and vision displayed in her artwork. Subsequently, Nacha was offered a solo exhibition in February 2017, a remarkable opportunity coinciding with Black History Month. The chosen project, titled, ‘The Eye of Owerre-Olubor’, showcased Nacha’s profound connection to her heritage. Through a series of evocative images captured in her ancestral homeland in Delta State, Nigeria, where her maternal grandfather once reigned as King, she presented a nuanced perspective on beauty, legacy, and cultural identity. This solo exhibition served as a powerful story of heritage and lineage the pivotal moment in Nacha’s artistic evolution, establishing her as a rising talent within the art world.

Beyond the artistic realm, Kama is a staunch advocate for democracy and federalism. Her commitment to social justice shines through in her dedication to giving back to her community and advocating for equality and opportunity for all.

So, who is Nacha Kama? “A multifaceted divine champion; in a nutshell a powerhouse of creativity, social justice, and innovation,” she says.

“I grew up a military kid amid the cultural richness of my heritage, Festival 77, and the stately walls of the Governor’s Residence, a unique upbringing under the General’s flag. My childhood was a unique tapestry woven from tradition, discipline, adventure, diverse perspectives, and self-discovery.”
She continues, “my parents, a driven entrepreneur mom and a decorated General-turned-politician dad – were the architects of my adventurous spirit. Military life meant frequent relocations, each new posting a chance to build a new tribe of friends who shared the thrills and challenges of our nomadic lifestyle. It sparked a deep appreciation for the richness and beauty of the world around me.”

The schools she attended (both primary and secondary) nurtured her intellectual curiosity, pushed me academically, and opened the door to personal exploration. She embraced the athletic fields, particularly, track and field, where racking up honours fueled my competitive spirit and revealed a passion for exceeding expectations. This tomboyish spirit, nurtured by the active environment, became a cornerstone of my identity. She wasn’t your typical “girly girl,” but with every sprint, she embraced the tomboy she was, the cheers of her squad her victory anthem.

Her creativity found a different outlet in the world of art. Drawing became my artistic outlet, a space where imagination soared and emotions danced on paper. Growing up surrounded by vibrant communities, diverse cultures, and the ever-changing landscapes of nomadic life, “I learned to appreciate the beauty and richness of the world around me,” she says.

She reveals, “my father’s dedication to public service sparked a fire within me, planting in me a deep sense of responsibility and a desire to contribute to society. This blend of experiences shaped me into the person I am today – a citizen of the world with a heart for adventure, and a passion for pushing boundaries.”

Intrigued by her artistic versatility and diverse skill set in photography, hair, and make-up, you wonder, where did all of these come from? Is it in the DNA or acquired?

“It’s a mix of both! I guess I have some natural talent for visual things. I’ve learned from amazing mentors, and classes, and by doing it myself, over and over. So, I think it’s like a seed that needs the right soil and sunshine to grow into a big, beautiful plant. In all of these, it’s God’s Grace.”

How does she combine her Information Systems Management background with her artistic drive?
“My ISM skills come in handy during the conceptualising, planning, and executing of my artistic projects. I leverage project management methodologies, communication strategies, and resource allocation techniques to ensure my artistic visions come to life efficiently and effectively. This merging of both sensibilities is, in essence, my professional superpower. Both artistic and technical disciplines require critical thinking also, and the ability to challenge assumptions. It empowers me to be a thought leader and creative force in both worlds, constantly striving to redefine what’s possible and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of both art and technology.”

What was it like working with famous photographer Johnson Donatus Aihumekeokhai Ojeikere (J.D Okhai Ojeikere)?

“The first time I met Pa Ojekere, a genuine bond was formed instantly. In a way he was like family not a mentor. Prof. Sally Boon Matthews (my mentor and college professor) gave me academic grounding and practical wisdom. My meeting with Pa Ojeikere wasn’t a meeting in the conventional sense, but an eruption of creative fireworks. Imagine stepping into a studio, as a walking art installation, a hairstyle that turned heads and stopped conversations, I called it ‘Shuku Nacha’, an Eiffel Tower rising from my scalp – a towering masterpiece that earned me the nickname ‘Walking Eiffel Tower’.”

She reveals, “‘Shuku Nacha’ wasn’t just any hairstyle; it was a manifesto sculpted from my imagination of which I sketched its blueprint on paper and brought it to life with the help of a skilled hairstylist. My journey with Pa Ojekiere wasn’t a one-way street. Our partnership was fueled by the shared ember of artistic passion pushing each other’s creative limits. Every studio session of our collaboration was extraordinary. I’d pinch myself; this is me, side-by-side with the renowned figure in African art photography legendary photographer himself. Yet it was the coming together of two iconic photographers working together to create masterpieces.”

He expressed great appreciation for my artistic direction, particularly, the innovative hairstyles I sketched for our projects. Notably, one of my designs was featured in his second book, “Ojeikere”, further solidifying the impact of our artistic dialogue. He always praised Prof. Sally Boon, for guiding me on this remarkable path. According to him, he saw beyond a future icon, he saw a kindred spirit, a fellow creative pushing boundaries. He believed in my vision, a testament to the impact of my very first project with him. I miss him a lot. I am grateful for every moment spent. His passing left a void that aches to this day. Yet, his legacy shines on, a beacon illuminating the path of art history, and I’m humbled to be a part of it.”

What makes your artwork different from others?
“Originality. I draw with light from my soul… Beyond capturing moments, I ignite conversations. I create thought-provoking narratives through my lens, my work is characterized by a distinct visual style that blends innovative techniques with a keen eye to push the boundaries of traditional photography.”

As the descendant of the revered HRM Prince Ezinna Ngaboso Onwuemena, the Ogwude of Owerre-Olubor, she was granted a rare glimpse into the vibrant tapestry of the vibrant and industrious people. Her camera, a silent observer, captured their essence during her brief sojourn in the town. “The stoic farmers tending the land, the lively traders in the market, the children, their infectious energy bubbling over in playful poses, and the intrepid hunters. Each encounter is a vibrant capture on the canvas of Owerre-Olubor.”

She says: “It was, in a word, magical. A journey that not only unveiled the beauty of my maternal ancestral home but also reaffirmed the enduring power of the bonds woven from tradition and hospitality. My photograph draws into the heart of the Kingdom, offering a glimpse into its rich traditions and diverse characters. My work is a celebration of cultural heritage, human connection, and the enduring power of family and community. In the warm embrace of Owerre Olubor, I found not just a land, but a legacy.”

How does she unwind? What is a typical day like for you?
“Faith first, gym, the rest depends on what’s on my schedule. I lose myself in the flow of a variety of my intellectual and artistic passions. I’m a bibliophile and philomath, a total knowledge junkie. Making people laugh is my superpower, my inner comedian loves making people laugh, introverted by nature, an adventurer at heart, and I find solace and peace in piano melodies.”
[ad unit=2]