Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Stephanie Kwaghe. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Stephanie, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?

Throughout my secondary and tertiary education, laid the foundation for my artistic journey. Under the mentorship of Unyime Edet, I refined my painting skills, polishing my technique and developing a unique style that authentically represents me as an artist.

In retrospect, I recognize that consistency and an innate curiosity to explore related fields would have accelerated my growth. However, l’ve come to realize that the most essential skill for an artist is self-satisfaction – finding joy in the creative process, free from external validation.

My greatest obstacle was self-doubt, stemming from attempts to emulate other artists rather than embracing my individuality and nurturing my strengths. Overcoming this hurdle has allowed me to cultivate a genuine artistic voice.”

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

Hello, I’m Stephanie Emmanuel kwaghe, a passionate and creative visual artist from Nigeria based in Abuja.
I’m driven by a desire to express the beauty and complexity of human experiences through my art especially through figure painting.
With a strong foundation in painting, I explore various mediums to convey emotions, tell stories, and spark meaningful conversations.
My journey as an artist started way back as a little girl which sipped into my secondary school days, where I discovered my talent for drawing and painting. I pursued fine art in tertiary institution, further refining my skills under the mentorship of Unyime Edet.
His guidance helped me develop a unique style that blends traditional and contemporary techniques.
As a versatile visual artist, I provide a range of creative services, including:
1.Original paintings crafted in oil, acrylic, and mixed media, showcasing my unique perspective.
2.Custom commissioned artwork, from captivating portraits to breathtaking landscapes and thought-provoking abstracts.
3.Unconventional art classes that break away from traditional teaching methods, fostering innovative expression and creativity.

Looking ahead, I plan to expand my artistic vision into exciting new territories, leveraging my skills to explore fashion and interior design. This integration will enable me to create holistic, immersive experiences that bring artistry to everyday life.

Through my art, I strive to:
1.Inspire and uplift audiences with unique, thought-provoking pieces that spark meaningful conversations.
2.Capture the rich essence of Nigerian culture and experiences, sharing the beauty and complexity of my heritage.
3.Deliver bespoke artistic solutions, crafting customized artwork that exceeds clients’ expectations.
4.Create emotive visual stories for brands and businesses, conveying their messages with impact and authenticity.

What sets me apart:
1.My distinctive style seamlessly blends traditional and contemporary techniques, yielding fresh perspectives.
2.Meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to quality ensure timeless artwork.
3.My ability to convey complex emotions and stories through art fosters deep connections with viewers.
4.A passionate exploration of diverse themes from identity to social change and self discovery drives my creative journey.

What I’m Most Proud Of
I take pride in:
1.Cultivating a distinct artistic voice that resonates with audiences.
2.Earning recognition from art enthusiasts and critics, validating my creative journey.
3.Building a supportive community that values my unique perspective.
4.Continuously pushing creative boundaries, driving growth and innovation.

What I Want You to Know
As a passionate artist, I want you to understand:
1.My art is a heartfelt reflection of my love for storytelling and human connection.
I’m dedicated to delivering exceptional, bespoke artwork that surpasses expectations.
2.Collaboration and open communication are cornerstones of my creative process.
3.I’m committed to leveraging art as a powerful tool for social impact and positive change.
Follow me on social media (@kwaghe_steph) on instagram to stay updated on my latest works, exhibitions, and projects. Let’s connect and explore how art can inspire, uplift, and transform our world.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

Often, those outside the art world misunderstand my passion for art. I’m frequently asked, ‘Did you choose to study art in school?’ or ‘Was it your first choice?’ Non-creative individuals I interact with commonly struggle to grasp why someone would dedicate their life to art, viewing it as merely
‘drawing. However, the truth is that art, like any profession, requires dedication to unlock its full potential. It’s a reciprocal relationship – the more you invest, the more it yields.

Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?

One book that has profoundly impacted my management and entrepreneurial thinking is ‘Kane and Abel’ by Jeffrey Archer. Although a fictional novel, it masterfully illustrates the importance of long-term strategic planning, calculated risk-taking, and resilient leadership. I highly recommend it to entrepreneurs who prefer narrative storytelling over traditional non-fiction business books.

Archer’s captivating tale of two ambitious individuals navigating complex business landscapes and personal struggles offers valuable lessons on:

1. Visionary thinking and goal-setting
2. Adaptability and perseverance
3. Effective decision-making under uncertainty
4. Building strategic relationships and partnerships

This novel has influenced my approach to entrepreneurship by emphasizing the need for:

1. Holistic thinking, considering both short-term and long-term consequences
2. Embracing calculated risks to drive growth and innovation
3. Cultivating strong relationships and networks

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kwaghe_steph?igsh=eG54NjhjeWQ1dTlu&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/14j8Fepsyu/?mibextid=LQQJ4d
• Linkedin: Stephanie kwaghe
• Other: https://linktr.ee/kwaghe_steph

Image Credits

Abdulsalam Mukhtar