Ludovic Nkoth is a Cameroonian-born, New York-based artist known for his evocative paintings that explore themes of identity, migration, and the African diaspora. With a distinct style that blends vibrant colours and dynamic compositions, Nkoth's work reflects his personal journey of self-discovery and the complexities of cultural heritage. As he delves into the nuances of self-care, Nkoth reveals how his artistic practice serves as a form of healing, offering insight into the ways art can nurture both the soul and the community.

A Journey Through Art, Identity, and Healing with Ludovic Nkoth:

In this interview, Ludovic Nkoth opens up about the self-care practices that sustain his artistic life. Discover how he maintains balance in the demanding world of contemporary art, and learn about the routines and reflections that help him stay connected to his cultural heritage while nurturing his creative spirit.

AS: What are some self-care practices that you find most benefit your work & creative output?

LN: Self-care is very important to me, without it I wouldn’t be able to function inside or outside of the studio. To recharge, I enjoy long walks both in the mornings and evenings.

Early in the morning I typically start with a full body workout to get the blood flowing and after that, I tend to my garden. Gardening is still new to me but caring for the plants I have has really helped me understand how to slow down.

Finding time for stillness is essential to my practice. 

AS: In what ways do you nurture your mental and emotional health to maintain creativity and inspiration?

LN: In my opinion creative nourishment can come from every second of the day.

Whether is looking intently at the veins of a tree leaves or watching a movie. Generally, I make it a mission to be connected to the outside world as much as possible because it’s easy to forget about the world while I’m in the studio for hours painting.

While music has always been a creative well of inspiration for me, I also love to take in books and podcasts whenever I can.

“HOW WE CHOOSE TO FRAME A SITUATION HOLDS A LOT OF POWER.” - Ludovic Nkoth

AS: What practices or routines do you incorporate into your daily life to support your work while maintaining your creative energy and mental well-being?

LN: I grew up in a very active family so physical exercise with my brothers and friends was always a good way to recalibrate my mind. I’m still very active with sports, I find that it’s a way to feed that inner child in me with pure play. I think that doing things that have nothing to do with my practice really helps me tackle problems differently in the studio. It’s easy to get tunnel vision.

AS: How do you handle setbacks or challenges in your creative endeavors while still prioritizing your well-being?

LN: I believe that if you expect setbacks to happen in life or work you will be better prepared to handle them whenever they come. I don't fight them, and assess them for what they are.

I always attempt to see whatever difficult moment as an advantage. How we choose to frame a situation holds a lot of power. I want to avoid festering in a vicious cycle of stress as every situation always holds a silver lining.

AS: What specific environment or settings do you find especially conducive to both self-care and creative inspiration?

LN: I have a few spaces where I feel at peace. For example, my garden, my bed, and the studio. I also try to spend as much time as I can with loved ones, they always recalibrate me.

AS: Best self-care advice you have received?

LN: Take a break haha!

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