Mavic Chijoke Okeugo’s “Focus Tale”

The African Centre, London, proudly hosted “Focus Tale,” a compelling solo fine art photography exhibition by visual artist Mavic Chijoke Okeugo, which ran from February 5 to February 11, 2024. The exhibition concluded to strong attendance, critical engagement, and vibrant dialogue, marking a significant moment in contemporary African photography within the UK cultural landscape.

“Focus Tale” presented a thoughtfully curated body of photographic works that explored themes of identity, memory, movement, and lived experience, using visual storytelling as a tool for reflection and connection. Through a refined fine-art lens, Okeugo invited viewers to pause, observe, and engage deeply with narratives often overlooked or fleeting in everyday life.

Throughout the week-long exhibition, visitors from diverse backgrounds gathered at the African Centre to experience the works firsthand. The opening reception and subsequent guided walkthroughs fostered meaningful conversations around African visual culture, diaspora perspectives, and the role of photography as both documentation and poetic expression. Guests praised the exhibition’s emotional resonance, cinematic composition, and the artist’s ability to balance intimacy with universality.

Speaking on the exhibition’s conclusion, Mavic Chijoke Okeugo reflected:

“Focus Tale is about stillness and intention about seeing beyond the obvious and allowing stories to unfold naturally. Exhibiting this body of work at the African Centre was deeply meaningful, as it created space for shared reflection and dialogue.”

The African Centre provided an ideal setting for “Focus Tale,” aligning with its mission to celebrate African and African-diaspora creativity while supporting contemporary voices shaping global narratives. The exhibition further reinforced London’s position as a vital hub for African art and cultural exchange.

Following the success of “Focus Tale,” plans are underway for future showings, publications, and continued exploration of the project in new contexts.

Daniel Usidamen

Author