Joshua O’Shea Odoemenam

Joshua O’Shea Odoemenam is a civil engineer by trade and an artist at heart, dreams. Joshua is a young man from Northern Nigerian who spends his spare time working on developing his art and 3D modelling skills whilst applying to universities in the US to chase his dreams of becoming an academic researcher in engineering. He is a big advocate of societal development through entrepreneurial actions, which is why he volunteers with the ACT’s graphic design team, creating the incredible artwork you will see across our website and social media.

What was one of the most exciting or inspiring moments in your life so far?

In 2019, back in school, when I topped the class. Now, this may seem like something regular for some but it meant everything to me. The reason was the fact that I never thought it was possible or that I had it in me. I always doubted myself, mostly because I failed almost throughout my high school days, so achieving a fit like this made me realise how much I can accomplish if I have a different mindset. It is crazy, but this single moment has created a long-lasting imprint of belief in not just myself but others. Once you believe you can do something and you set your mind to it, then there’s nothing out there that can stop you.

How would you sum up your journey with Spring ACT? 

Choosing to be a part of Spring ACT is a decision that I’m very proud of, I’ve loved every moment so far. It’s an organisation that allows you to impact the world through whatever you have to offer. It’s about truly making a change because we are addressing really hard issues that are affecting a lot of lives in the most negative ways imaginable. I was introduced to Spring ACT by my friend Nephi, who always recommends the best things out there. He’s really invested in societal transformation and he always wants me along with him, which is the best thing I could possibly ask for, because how do we expect to change the world if we know the way and don’t take our friends along? 

I guess what I would love to see more of out of ACT is a vast expansion, which I know the founder, Rhiana, is already working on. It’s an inspiring organisation with the most dedicated team out there, so I know it’s only a matter of time. 

What fascinates you about civil engineering and art? 

In some senses, civil engineering and art are similar, they both require a structural understanding. You need to understand the finished work before you can successfully construct or create a work of art. Some people see art as just a skip away, but it’s not that easy. Just like in construction in civil engineering, you have to work your way up from the foundation, which in the case of art is that initial sketch you make that serves as your guide (foundation). They both have a tasking process that produces beautiful results.

How do you see the future of art and social activism? 

Art is something everyone, in some sense, can relate to. Its beauty and creativity attract virtually everyone from all walks of life, which I believe is an opportunity we, as artists, can use to get inspiring and empowering messages across. In 2020, I saw one of the most beautiful pieces of art that conveyed a very strong message across Nigeria. Dr. Aisha Yusuf was one of the leading activists during the #EndSars protest in Nigeria. She was willing to sacrifice everything for the nation, and an artist was able to capture that moment. It was so captivating that no matter where you are from in this world, you can catch a glimpse of its meaning without speaking with the artist. You almost instantly understand the story behind it. That is the power of art in social activism. It says a lot without the need for words. I believe in the times to come we would have a lot more artists preaching as activists through their art.  

What’s your dream job?

I hope to become an academic researcher someday in the field of transportation engineering. Nigeria’s transportation system right now is in shambles, I want to be able to carry out research that would really transform the system.

Can you share with us some insight into your artwork as a graphic designer?

Artwork has always been a part of my life. It’s that indispensable part of me.  I can remember my siblings telling me about how I started as a toddler making scribbles on the walls of the house. Even though I have had an interest since childhood, it was only in 2020 that I decided to fully invest myself in it and develop this art skill. The thing about art is that it is quite demanding when it comes to how much time you put into it, especially when you are more focused on photorealism. Every detail matters. You want it to look good, so you put in extra time and effort.

I am currently focused on digital painting for various reasons, one being the fact that it is not easily destroyed, unlike conventional canvas painting. Nothing hurts like losing an artwork you value so much. As great as this advantage is for me, it comes with a very stressful process because I am currently constrained to using my mobile phone for now, which is uncomfortable as you can imagine, especially trying to produce a masterpiece. The good thing is my love for art is greater than the stress 😉 I think for me, the most memorable moment was when I was working on my third digital painting. It was midnight and I had Salud by Beyonce and Jay Z playing on repeat. I was finally getting the hang of this digital painting thing, and I didn’t want to ruin it by switching the music. I remember going to bed later on with the best feeling ever. That art remained my favourite piece for a long time.