Dozie Kanu

Dozie Kanu is a Nigerian-American artist whose multidisciplinary practice blends sculpture, design, and cultural commentary to explore themes of identity, labor, and social politics. Born in Texas in 1993, Kanu often repurposes everyday objects and materials in his works, challenging traditional ideas of functionality and aesthetics while drawing attention to the cultural and historical narratives embedded in the materials he uses. His sculptures frequently navigate the intersection of design and art, emphasizing the political and social significance of objects and their connection to race, labor, and global history.Kanu's work is rooted in a deep engagement with his Nigerian heritage and American upbringing, using this duality to question broader concepts of identity, migration, and colonialism. Through his sculptural practice, he reimagines and deconstructs familiar objects—such as furniture and industrial materials—transforming them into art pieces that provoke discussions around cultural identity and social inequality. His work invites viewers to rethink the roles and histories of everyday items, offering a critical lens on the often-overlooked politics of design and material culture.One of Kanu’s central themes is the exploration of labor and its relationship to Blackness, as seen in his series of sculptures that incorporate elements of African and African-American cultural symbols. His use of raw, industrial materials juxtaposed with culturally significant motifs creates tension, pushing viewers to confront the complex histories of production, consumption, and racial identity. Kanu’s work often carries a sense of utilitarianism, blending art and design in ways that challenge conventional boundaries between the two disciplines.Kanu has exhibited internationally at major venues, including the Venice Biennale, the New Museum in New York, and the Studio Museum in Harlem. His innovative approach to sculpture and design, coupled with his focus on social and political issues, has made him a significant voice in contemporary art. By transforming everyday objects into thought-provoking artworks, Dozie Kanu continues to question and redefine the narratives surrounding race, labor, and cultural identity in the modern world.