MIKE

London born and based multimedia artist and designer Michael Akuagwu (b.1995) invites contemplation on society and culture through his work. Starting off using surrealist techniques, composite photography and self-portraiture as a way to explore his thoughts on the world around him, his practice has expanded - utilising mixed media, design and film to address important topics affecting society today.

Michael recently completed a year-long artist-in-residence programme at the V&A, in collaboration with Adobe, where he was able to create new work inspired by his research of specific works in the museum's collections. Alongside curating and producing programmes for young people and connecting with new audiences at the museum he created two works: Through The Lens - part film, part photography series featuring intergenerational conversations between Black British Photographers and Reference Point - a short film highlighting the impact of Western references on a group of Black Designers from the Diaspora. Both works are currently on display at the V&A Museum's show 'Adobe Creative Residents on Display' till November 2026.