Full name: Kehinde James Akanni
Artist name: Keniclays
Kehinde Akanni is a graduate of ceramics from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria who had his internship at Atamora, Osun State. During the internship, he learnt the production of large flower pots, vases andwater pots as well as production of ceramic refractory bricks for kiln. He was also exposed to wooden kiln firing but his appetite and hunger for excellence made him look outward for inspiration and found the works of Djakou Kassi Nathalie whose engravings influenced him greatly. He therefore decided to engrave Adire and Yoruba motifs on his works in order to elevate his patterns and embellish his textures. These textures are used as entry points into his culturally layered symbols, texts, and narrative. Kehinde hasparticipated in a number of group exhibitions including Beyond Limit Ceramic Exhibition and Yoruba Ni Mi,an online exhibition • +234 ArtFair - Ecobank HQ, Victoria Island, Lagos (2025)
Art Amiabo International Art Festival (2025)
Artist statement: As a pottery artist, I focus on conceptual clay pieces that explore African themes. My work incorporates motifs and designs from traditional African visual culture, reflecting our social, economic, and religious experiences.
At a glance
Artwork samples
Studio images
Available
Blacks are beautiful
USD 1,206.90
Blacks are Beautiful" is an art piece that celebrates the beauty, resilience, and contributions of the Black race to the...
Share your vision — portraits, murals, bespoke installations and more. Expect moodboarding, sketch previews, and milestone updates tailored to your project.
Kehinde Akanni is a graduate of ceramics from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria who had his internship at Atamora, Osun State. During the internship, he learnt the production of large flower pots, vases andwater pots as well as production of ceramic refractory bricks for kiln. He was also exposed to wooden kiln firing but his appetite and hunger for excellence made him look outward for inspiration and found the works of Djakou Kassi Nathalie whose engravings influenced him greatly. He therefore decided to engrave Adire and Yoruba motifs on his works in order to elevate his patterns and embellish his textures. These textures are used as entry points into his culturally layered symbols, texts, and narrative. Kehinde hasparticipated in a number of group exhibitions including Beyond Limit Ceramic Exhibition and Yoruba Ni Mi,an online exhibition • +234 ArtFair - Ecobank HQ, Victoria Island, Lagos (2025)
Art Amiabo International Art Festival (2025)
Studio notes
As a pottery artist, I focus on conceptual clay pieces that explore African themes. My work incorporates motifs and designs from traditional African visual culture, reflecting our social, economic, and religious experiences.
