David Kudaisi is a contemporary artist currently based in the UK. His practice explores representation, identity, and belonging through vibrant, figurative work inspired by cartoons, manga, and memory.
Raised across Nigeria, the U.S., Canada, England, and Scotland, Kudaisi’s global upbringing shapes both the emotional and visual texture of his work. Drawing early inspiration from animated series like Hamtaro, Teen Titans, and Dragon Ball, he developed a deep love for bold colour, expressive characters, and storytelling that transcends cultural borders.
At the heart of his work is a desire to create the kind of imagery he rarely saw growing up: Black characters who are deeply human, genuinely desirable in a healthy way, and portrayed as someone to aspire to. Kudaisi’s art reflects his belief that meaningful representation can provide affirmation, joy, healing, and direction. Each piece is a chance to give younger generations, particularly Black children, the kind of visibility and positive reinforcement he often lacked in his own youth.
His current body of work marks a shift from working solely in abstraction to embracing figuration more intentionally. While abstraction remains an element of his visual language, he now places greater focus on narrative-driven characters grounded in lived experience. He aims to contribute to the cultural change already taking place by reflecting Black identity in ways that are complex, joyful, and self-defined.
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For collaborations, commissions, or inquiries, feel free to contact me at davidkudaisi@gmail.com.
ONGOING
2025. Subject Matters Exhibition, London UK
2025. Ebb & Flow, Reading UK
UPCOMING
2025. Art Evol Voices of The Undefined at Saatchi Gallery: Catalogue Feature, London UK
2025. The Biscuit Factory: Exhibition, Reading UK
Press/Media Features
2025. Pride of Reading Awards: Artist Talk Video Feature @ Nylon Hair Artists, Reading, UK
WORKSHOPS
2025. Ziggy Played Guitar Workshop at Jelly Studios, Reading UK
RESIDENCIES
2025. Jelly Studios Artist in Residence, Reading UK
EXHIBITONS
2025. Nylon Hair Artists: Solo Exhibition, Reading UK
2025. Milk: Solo Exhibition, Reading UK
2025. “lightning steals the baby, /0.01” and “lightning steals the baby, /0.02.” (Permanent Display), Russell Building, University of Reading
2025. Brighter Futures Exhibition, Reading UK
2025. Connect Reading Black History Month Exhibition, Reading UK
2025. Art Collide, Dreamscapes Exhibition: Finalist & Virtual Exhibition, International (Virtual)
2025. Cheeky London 25: Launchpad Exhibition, London UK
2025. The Holy Art Gallery, The London Gathering Exhibition, London UK
2025. The Rising Sun, June Art Market, Reading UK
2025. The Boy and the Heron (Permanent Display), Russell Building, University of Reading
2024. Black History Month fête, University of Reading
EDUCATION
2021-2024. BSc Business Management & Economics, University of Roehampton, London UK (where it began baby)