The Artist and solo exhibitor
By Francis Odupute
_“Any authentic work of art must start an argument between the artist and his audience”_ -Rebecca West (1892-1983).
The alphabet as a communicative medium is basically used for writing (written word) and speech (spoken word). However, the alphabets also have creative potentials (design word) and possibilities inherent in them.
An examination of the English alphabet has revealed that these design potentials and possibilities have not been given adequate attention over time by artists particularly, design professionals.
Contemporary Nigerian artist and lecturer, Dr. Kennette Dikens Nwabuoku of the University of Benin (UNIBEN), after a series of research, has formulated a system and concept which has sparked fresh conversations on alphabetical manipulation of the principles of basic design for concept derivation and production packaging.
Speaking with his audience during his solo art exhibition held at the Prof. John Ogene Drawing Studio, Department of Fine and Applied Arts, UNIBEN, on the 28th of July, 2025, the artist cum researcher enthused his audience with lucid explanations:
“This is a marriage of the English alphabets and the principles of basic design. Basic designs, as we know, are the principles on which art is built
“I have formulated a concept whereby basic designs principles, coupled with English alphabets, combining English alphabets and basic designs I have formulated a concept whereby every branch of art, irrespective of discipline, art can be generated.
“We know before now that English letters are used either for writing or for speaking, but I have formulated a system whereby it will go beyond writing and speaking but go into design. If you go to the dictionary definition of alphabet, it is a system for writing and speaking. But by the discovery I have made, I have come to add that English alphabet or alphabet as it were, can be used for writing, speaking and for making art. That is the concept of alpha-basics.
“This is where I started from. Now as you go through the exhibits, you will realize that it’s difficult to identify a particular letter. So I have systematically, under tutelage, formulated a system whereby you can start from the known and end up in the unknown. As you can see, pick a particular letter – for instance, letter K. At the end of the analysis you’d find out that it’s no longer letter K but it has become a design principle. That is the beauty of alpha-basics,” Dr. Nwabuoku stated.
According to Professor John Ogene, DVC Emeritus/Professor of Graphics and Art History, supervisor of the project and mentor to the artist, “Today, we are all here once again to witness another journey into the world of the alphabet as a creative model, as presented in this exhibition, aptly titled: ALPHABASICS: Alphabetical Manipulation of the Principles of Basic Designs for Concepts Derivation and Product Packaging. Dr. Dikens, though majoring in Graphic Design and Communications, however, his experimentation in this regards has successfully bridged the gap between creative disciplines, because as can be observed in this outing, his coinage “Alpha-Basics” which is a dynamic collaboration between the letters of the Alphabet and the principles of Basic Designs, can be seen covering vast areas including Ceramics, Textiles, Interior Decoration and much more.”
Also lending his voice to the conversation at the exhibition, Dr. Kennedy Jude Eweka, H.O.D, Department of Fine and Applied Arts, UNIBEN, said “ALPHABASICS: Alphabetical Manipulation of the Principles of Basic Designs for Concepts Derivation and Product Packaging”, is a vibrant showcase of artistic expression and creativity. This exhibition brings together a diverse collection of works that explore the creative impulse inherent in the letters of the English Alphabet.
Through various mediums and styles, Dr. Kennette Dikens Nwabuoku invites you to experience his unique perspectives and visions. This collection of art works explores the intersection of the principles of Basic Design such as line, balance, emphasis, contrast, movement, proportion, repetition, rhythm, space, pattern, unity, variety, colours fused with the diversity of the letterforms in the English alphabet.
“Using the English alphabet for design purposes as can be observed in this exhibition, can be a creative and effective way to communicate messages, express artistic vision, or simply add visual interest. In fact, the possibilities are endless, and the use of the English alphabet in design can lead to innovative and visually striking creation,” Dr. Eweka posited.
Other dignitaries at the ALPHABASICS solo art exhibition included Prof. and Mrs. Manasseh E. Imonikebe (chairman of the occasion); Prof. and Mrs. E. I. Ononeme; Prof. Mrs. Theresa U. Osaigbovo; Dr. Felix Osaigbovo (Deputy Dean); Mr. Felix Umukoro.
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