NKATA: Dots of Thoughts

I often wake up in the morning with thoughts reeling in my head. Thoughts inspired by a conversation with someone; something I read, heard, listened to (music/podcasts), a film I saw, a photograph I made, an essay/poem I wrote, or in broad terms, an impactful encounter. They exist as disjointed, scattered particles I often refer to as dots of thoughts.Thus, this podcast show is an attempt to articulate, to converse and to put in relation these floating thoughts. While it relies on random impulses, the podcast is structured by thought-prompts focusing on everyday issues across space, time and works of life. Though it is not a live podcast, it somewhat mimics this approach in that for every episode, the conversation, which begins as a monologue, evolves into a dialogue through a phone conversation with someone else in another part of the world (a friend, a colleague, relative, expert in a subject, creator of a work, originator of an idea). This ensures a broadening of the thematic and locational context of the conversation as a way of demystifying distances. It is a weekly show intended to be spontaneous (as much as technical requirements and logistics allow). Future episodes will feature intro/excerpts of new music tracks made by me. Other times, it will reference aural materials sourced from different corners of everyday life. It will be freshly served – nothing preserved in the freezer! Listeners are encouraged to join the conversation by leaving a comment on the episode in their preferred platform of listening. Selected comments will be addressed in a subsequent episode.Emeka Okereke (host)Available on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google Podcast, Stitcher, Overcast, etc.

  1. EP24: Presence that Absents Nothing: Beyond the Confines of Thought

    4 JUN

    EP24: Presence that Absents Nothing: Beyond the Confines of Thought

    Send us a text In this episode of Dots of Thoughts, Emeka Okereke takes us beyond the Cartesian dictum “I think, therefore I am,”unraveling how this foundational idea has shaped—and distorted—the modern mind. With poetic lucidity, he reveals how thought, once a useful tool, has become a false guarantor of being, leading to fragmentation, anxiety, and an over-reliance on structure. This is not merely philosophical musing—it’s an articulation of a modern crisis of perception, one in which the very instruments we use to make sense of life have begun to obscure life itself. Emeka draws on the insight of J. Krishnamurti and lived observation to suggest that identification with thought breeds fear of dissolution—because thought ends, and what we cling to as “self” often ends with it. What opens up instead is the invitation to a different kind of encounter: a presence that absents nothing. A presence that listens, attends, and sees without needing to grasp. This episode is a tender and powerful offering to those seeking lucidity in an age of mental clutter—an echo of wholeness in fragmented times. Support the show Hi, amazing listeners! Emeka Okereke here. I am the founder and host of this show. If you’ve enjoyed the stories, insights, and creativity we bring to this podcast series, I invite you to join my Patreon community at patreon.com/EmekaOkereke. 🎉 By becoming a patron, you’ll gain exclusive access to my artistic world, including: • Behind-the-scenes content from my photography projects. • Sneak peeks of upcoming films, vlogs, and video podcasts. • Exclusive DJ playlists curated just for you. • Bonus podcast episodes and a chance to contribute to future topics. Whether you’re a fan of the podcast, my visual storytelling, or simply love art and creativity, there’s a tier for you. Your support helps me continue creating high-quality content, and it truly means the world to me. Thank you for listening. Follow Nkata Podcast Station on Instagram @nkatapodcast and Twitter. See the website for extensive materials: nkatapodcast.com

    36 min
  2. EP23: On Following The Intangible – with Genevieve White

    20/11/2024

    EP23: On Following The Intangible – with Genevieve White

    Send us a text In this episode, we journey with Genevieve White, a seasoned artist and performer, as she shares her path from her multicultural roots in Canada to the vibrant art scene of New York City—recorded in the tranquil atmosphere of Berlin’s Grunewald Forest as a conversation with host and transdisciplinary artist Emeka Okereke. Genevieve’s story reveals the transformative power of collaboration, creativity, and the delicate, often interwoven relationship between art and life. The conversation delves into how Genevieve views art as a vessel for expression, shaped by the diverse cultural dynamics and experiences she’s encountered. She opens up about the profound impact of nurturing and personal care amidst the chaos of creation. From collaborations with jazz musicians to the enduring influence of artistic legends like Duchamp and Graham, Genevieve unpacks the energy and magic that emerge when artists connect through mutual respect and shared vision, and how following those inklings of the intangible is a recurrent theme at the core of the creative principle. Reflecting on her upbringing in a large family, Genevieve explores the interplay between nurturing others and maintaining personal boundaries—a theme that resonates throughout her artistic journey and now preoccupies her as her creative flair takes on a rekindled urge and agency. Together, Genevieve and Emeka uncover the rich, unseen moments of everyday life that spark their creativity, the connections that inspire their work, and the wonder children bring into the world. But this episode isn’t just about art. It’s a story of resilience, fearlessness, and embracing change. They discuss the challenges of balancing personal passion with commercial success, the evolving role of online platforms in an artist’s journey, and the freedom that comes with artistic maturity. Through Genevieve’s experiences, listeners gain insights into the confidence that grows with time and the joy of stepping beyond traditional confines. Join us for this serene exploration of art, life, and nature’s restorative embrace. May this conversation inspire belief, joy, and the boundless creativity that comes from nurturing both self and others. Support the show Hi, amazing listeners! Emeka Okereke here. I am the founder and host of this show. If you’ve enjoyed the stories, insights, and creativity we bring to this podcast series, I invite you to join my Patreon community at patreon.com/EmekaOkereke. 🎉 By becoming a patron, you’ll gain exclusive access to my artistic world, including: • Behind-the-scenes content from my photography projects. • Sneak peeks of upcoming films, vlogs, and video podcasts. • Exclusive DJ playlists curated just for you. • Bonus podcast episodes and a chance to contribute to future topics. Whether you’re a fan of the podcast, my visual storytelling, or simply love art and creativity, there’s a tier for you. Your support helps me continue creating high-quality content, and it truly means the world to me. Thank you for listening. Follow Nkata Podcast Station on Instagram @nkatapodcast and Twitter. See the website for extensive materials: nkatapodcast.com

    1h 11m
  3. EP22: "Pleasures in the confusions of boundaries": Transdisciplinary Artistic Practices and Pedagogy – with Lukas Feireiss

    25/10/2024

    EP22: "Pleasures in the confusions of boundaries": Transdisciplinary Artistic Practices and Pedagogy – with Lukas Feireiss

    Send us a text In this episode of Dots of Thoughts, Emeka Okereke engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Berlin-based artist, producer, and scholar Lukas Freireiss. Renowned for his transdisciplinary approach, Lukas shares his practice of working in a “collage-like manner” that unites artists and cultural producers from diverse fields, transcending conventional boundaries. Lukas introduces Crossroads, his Berlin-based project, which he describes as a platform for bringing creators together to intersect and exchange ideas. Reflecting on the significance of being a Berliner, Lukas emphasizes the importance of cultivating spaces that encourage fluid, informal collaborations. The project’s name, Crossroads, embodies his goal of creating a meeting point for unexpected creative connections. Emeka and Lukas discuss what it means to work in a way that synthesizes multiple perspectives, referring to Donna Haraway’s idea of finding “pleasures in the confusion of boundaries.” They explore the potential of these transdisciplinary methods in a fast-paced world marked by transient attention spans and specialization. Lukas contemplates the challenge of fostering deeper engagement and the role of hybridity in enabling new methods of meaning-making. The conversation also touches on navigating the balance between structured fluidity and spontaneity, and the practical challenges posed by rigid bureaucratic systems. Lukas shares how his approach seeks to expand, rather than oppose, specialization, creating spaces for dialogue and collaboration across disciplines. Artists and cultural practitioners interested in transdisciplinary strategies and pedagogical methods will find this episode particularly enlightening. Support the show Hi, amazing listeners! Emeka Okereke here. I am the founder and host of this show. If you’ve enjoyed the stories, insights, and creativity we bring to this podcast series, I invite you to join my Patreon community at patreon.com/EmekaOkereke. 🎉 By becoming a patron, you’ll gain exclusive access to my artistic world, including: • Behind-the-scenes content from my photography projects. • Sneak peeks of upcoming films, vlogs, and video podcasts. • Exclusive DJ playlists curated just for you. • Bonus podcast episodes and a chance to contribute to future topics. Whether you’re a fan of the podcast, my visual storytelling, or simply love art and creativity, there’s a tier for you. Your support helps me continue creating high-quality content, and it truly means the world to me. Thank you for listening. Follow Nkata Podcast Station on Instagram @nkatapodcast and Twitter. See the website for extensive materials: nkatapodcast.com

    52 min
  4. EP21: Dilemma of a New Age: Black Fathers, Resilence, Raising a Child in Berlin - with Alain Missala

    05/08/2024

    EP21: Dilemma of a New Age: Black Fathers, Resilence, Raising a Child in Berlin - with Alain Missala

    Send us a text Can the simple act of daily gratitude empower and transform your life? In this episode of Dots of Thoughts Podcast, recorded on-site at the Neue Berliner Kunstverein, host Emeka Okereke and guest, Alain Missala, explore the vibrant multicultural landscape of contemporary Berlin. Alain delves into his pivotal work with Black Dads Germany and Zula, shedding light on how these initiatives are reimagining narratives and empowering children from multicultural backgrounds. Through personal anecdotes, Alain highlights the profound impact of role models and the daily practice of gratitude in enriching our lives and fostering resilience. Breaking Stereotypes: We take a hard look at the stereotypes surrounding Black fathers in Germany, challenging these misconceptions through the lens of community and solidarity. Alain shares the inspiring story of a proactive WhatsApp group consisting of over 200 Black fathers who support one another in their parenting journeys. This group aims to create a network that serves as a support system, emphasizing the mission to build safer, more inclusive spaces for Black families, where vulnerability is embraced and healing is possible through shared experiences. Broader Themes: Finally, we explore broader themes of activism, interconnectedness, and cultural identity in Berlin. What does it take to teach love and unity to our children amid societal challenges? Emeka poses the question: How do we raise our children to embody the beauty and wealth of differences in times of ideological divides and heightened racial tensions? Reflections and Insights: We reflect on creating meaningful dialogues, drawing inspiration from the African philosophy of Ubuntu, which emphasizes the importance of empathy and togetherness. Through stories of organic community-building, informal gatherings, and the proactive retention of cultural heritage, we showcase how everyday interactions can nurture a robust, empowered community. Support the show Hi, amazing listeners! Emeka Okereke here. I am the founder and host of this show. If you’ve enjoyed the stories, insights, and creativity we bring to this podcast series, I invite you to join my Patreon community at patreon.com/EmekaOkereke. 🎉 By becoming a patron, you’ll gain exclusive access to my artistic world, including: • Behind-the-scenes content from my photography projects. • Sneak peeks of upcoming films, vlogs, and video podcasts. • Exclusive DJ playlists curated just for you. • Bonus podcast episodes and a chance to contribute to future topics. Whether you’re a fan of the podcast, my visual storytelling, or simply love art and creativity, there’s a tier for you. Your support helps me continue creating high-quality content, and it truly means the world to me. Thank you for listening. Follow Nkata Podcast Station on Instagram @nkatapodcast and Twitter. See the website for extensive materials: nkatapodcast.com

    1h 19m
  5. EP20: How Can Photography Shape Political Discourse in the 21st Century? – with Jane Tormey

    13/05/2024

    EP20: How Can Photography Shape Political Discourse in the 21st Century? – with Jane Tormey

    Send us a text In this episode, I discuss the book, "Photography and Political Aesthetics" with the author, art critic and professor, Jane Tormey.  Our enlightening conversation traverses the landscape where artistry intersects with political fervour, dissecting how photographs can sway social movements and mould public opinion. We navigate the evolution of politically motivated photography, from its historical roots to contemporary schools of thought, probing the depth and breadth of visual politics. Jane argues for the need to reconsider how photography could be deployed "in a more focused way" to shape present-day political discourses and encourage critical engagement by the viewer.  As with the book, our conversation touched on such key figures as Walter Benjamin, and how his work laid the premise for understanding the potency of photography in our time and the time to come.  We reflect on the normative passivity with which photojournalism or politically-motivated images are often digested, advocating for a proactive stance that beckons photographs to be more than ephemeral snapshots—they must incite tangible change through how it is presented and disseminated.  The session alludes to the pitfalls in the conflation of art and journalism while spotlighting African photographers who are reconstructing the narrative and calling for a conscientious, celebratory and playful portrayal of imagery that dares to defy the conventional.  Yet, the overarching aim of this conversation is to draw attention to this cohesive and timely book that students of photography, media and cultural studies will find invaluable.  Host: Emeka Okereke Guest: Jane Tormey Production: Atelier E.K Okereke Support the show Hi, amazing listeners! Emeka Okereke here. I am the founder and host of this show. If you’ve enjoyed the stories, insights, and creativity we bring to this podcast series, I invite you to join my Patreon community at patreon.com/EmekaOkereke. 🎉 By becoming a patron, you’ll gain exclusive access to my artistic world, including: • Behind-the-scenes content from my photography projects. • Sneak peeks of upcoming films, vlogs, and video podcasts. • Exclusive DJ playlists curated just for you. • Bonus podcast episodes and a chance to contribute to future topics. Whether you’re a fan of the podcast, my visual storytelling, or simply love art and creativity, there’s a tier for you. Your support helps me continue creating high-quality content, and it truly means the world to me. Thank you for listening. Follow Nkata Podcast Station on Instagram @nkatapodcast and Twitter. See the website for extensive materials: nkatapodcast.com

    38 min
  6. EP19: Polyrhythmic Weavings Across Countries, Continents, and Time – with Batila

    25/02/2024

    EP19: Polyrhythmic Weavings Across Countries, Continents, and Time – with Batila

    Send us a text This episode takes you on an auditory pilgrimage with the Berlin-based, musician, Batila,  weaving the essence of his Congolese and Angolan heritage into a rich narrative that dances between the notes of his latest album, "Tatamana." As Batila unpacks his life's journey from Germany to the cultural depths of his upbringing, we discover how a childhood migration shaped not only his reality but also the very music that he breathes into existence. Batila's convictions resonate as he insists on music as a vessel for storytelling, a self-acclaimed Griot channelling his energy of crossroads between time and space that underscores his outlook in life. We explore his philosophy that songs must be born from significance, enveloped in the authenticity and depth of his artistry. His first album, a celebration of Black love and unity, stands as a testament to his craft, every carefully composed piece reflecting his dedication to delivering not just sound, but an experience. The high-resolution audio of "Tatamana" invites listeners to not just hear but feel the music, as we discuss how Batila's meticulous attention to detail crafts not only songs but a movement. Join us for an inspiring session that transcends melody and tinkers with the realms of spirituality and healing. Batila shares his vision for his upcoming album "Mpeve," aiming to connect listeners in a collective trance of togetherness. We close with "Resurrection," a track symbolizing hope and peace, capturing the essence of our discussion. It's a fitting end to our journey with Batila, where each note is a step towards understanding the unbreakable bond between sound, identity, ideology and the eternal quest for inner peace. Host: Emeka Okereke  Guest: Batila Production: Atelier E.K Okereke Cover Photo: Natasha Morokhova Support the show Hi, amazing listeners! Emeka Okereke here. I am the founder and host of this show. If you’ve enjoyed the stories, insights, and creativity we bring to this podcast series, I invite you to join my Patreon community at patreon.com/EmekaOkereke. 🎉 By becoming a patron, you’ll gain exclusive access to my artistic world, including: • Behind-the-scenes content from my photography projects. • Sneak peeks of upcoming films, vlogs, and video podcasts. • Exclusive DJ playlists curated just for you. • Bonus podcast episodes and a chance to contribute to future topics. Whether you’re a fan of the podcast, my visual storytelling, or simply love art and creativity, there’s a tier for you. Your support helps me continue creating high-quality content, and it truly means the world to me. Thank you for listening. Follow Nkata Podcast Station on Instagram @nkatapodcast and Twitter. See the website for extensive materials: nkatapodcast.com

    54 min
  7. EP18: Rooftop Encounters, and "Living Tangier." – with Abdelmajid Hannoum

    20/11/2023

    EP18: Rooftop Encounters, and "Living Tangier." – with Abdelmajid Hannoum

    Send us a text During a three-week residency in Tangier, Morocco, my friend and colleague, anthropologist Mathangi Krishnamurthy, and I, Emeka Okereke, had the privilege of meeting Abdelmajid Hannoum, whose book "Living Tangier" served as a springboard for our research and thought processes during our residency in the city, organized and supported by The Minority Globe. In this episode of Dots of Thoughts, Professor Hannoum shares his intellectual and creative process of translating fieldwork experiences into academic work. We dive deeper into the realities of migration and its impact on the city of Tangier. Hannoum, drawing from his personal experiences growing up around some of the Moroccan children he researched, enriches our understanding of Tangier's intricate history and changing demographics. Furthermore, Hannoum elaborates on the phenomenon of death concerning the migrant body. This subject stems from his personal experience during his years of research for the book. But our narrative doesn't end there. We also delve into the realm of global cities, exploring how their manicured images often mask the disparities within them. Our observations led us to question the place of Tangier in this global context, discussing its complex identity and evolving narrative. Join us as we peer through the curtains of this multifaceted city, exploring its various aspects and discussing its complex identity and evolving narrative.  Support the show Hi, amazing listeners! Emeka Okereke here. I am the founder and host of this show. If you’ve enjoyed the stories, insights, and creativity we bring to this podcast series, I invite you to join my Patreon community at patreon.com/EmekaOkereke. 🎉 By becoming a patron, you’ll gain exclusive access to my artistic world, including: • Behind-the-scenes content from my photography projects. • Sneak peeks of upcoming films, vlogs, and video podcasts. • Exclusive DJ playlists curated just for you. • Bonus podcast episodes and a chance to contribute to future topics. Whether you’re a fan of the podcast, my visual storytelling, or simply love art and creativity, there’s a tier for you. Your support helps me continue creating high-quality content, and it truly means the world to me. Thank you for listening. Follow Nkata Podcast Station on Instagram @nkatapodcast and Twitter. See the website for extensive materials: nkatapodcast.com

    59 min
  8. EP17: Confronting Germany's past through colonial relics of the Prussian Palaces – with Carolin Alff

    05/08/2023

    EP17: Confronting Germany's past through colonial relics of the Prussian Palaces – with Carolin Alff

    Send us a text This episode was inspired by my participation in the exhibition "Prussian Palaces. Colonial Histories", taking place at the Schloss Charlottenburg Berlin.   My guest, Carolin Alff, one of the exhibition's curators, guides us through the thoughts that inform the exhibition's making. We discuss the mystery of two statues, their damaged state, a testament to the inaccessible vignette shrouding Germany's deplorable colonial past.  The statue in question was the subject of my audiovisual intervention called "Tracing Presence(s)... of Place, Body, Time." It is important to note that the relevance of this exhibition is not only in its attempt to reminisce about the past but also in how it asks pertinent questions about how the country and its people come to terms with the extent to which their past continues to inform their present where it has to do with white privilege and Western hegemony.  We delve into the curatorial process and the complex decisions made behind the scenes of this exhibition. According to the organisers,  the aim was not only to showcase artefacts but to create a safe space for dialogue where history can be reimagined and considered from new perspectives.  Yet I ask: to what extent does the need to create a "safe space" come in the way of creating a space of new knowledge that offers an occasion for genuine self-reflection rather than a "glossing over" or latent gloating?  With Carolin, we traverse the tricky territory of sensitive terminologies and challenging historical contexts, recognising the need for a transparent conversation that respects the histories of injustices and violence attached to these relics. Join us as we grapple with the past, confront uncomfortable truths, and underscore the importance of understanding history to shape a better present and future. This episode should inspire you to visit the exhibition from the 4th of July to the 31st of October, 2023.  Support the show Hi, amazing listeners! Emeka Okereke here. I am the founder and host of this show. If you’ve enjoyed the stories, insights, and creativity we bring to this podcast series, I invite you to join my Patreon community at patreon.com/EmekaOkereke. 🎉 By becoming a patron, you’ll gain exclusive access to my artistic world, including: • Behind-the-scenes content from my photography projects. • Sneak peeks of upcoming films, vlogs, and video podcasts. • Exclusive DJ playlists curated just for you. • Bonus podcast episodes and a chance to contribute to future topics. Whether you’re a fan of the podcast, my visual storytelling, or simply love art and creativity, there’s a tier for you. Your support helps me continue creating high-quality content, and it truly means the world to me. Thank you for listening. Follow Nkata Podcast Station on Instagram @nkatapodcast and Twitter. See the website for extensive materials: nkatapodcast.com

    1h 3m

About

I often wake up in the morning with thoughts reeling in my head. Thoughts inspired by a conversation with someone; something I read, heard, listened to (music/podcasts), a film I saw, a photograph I made, an essay/poem I wrote, or in broad terms, an impactful encounter. They exist as disjointed, scattered particles I often refer to as dots of thoughts.Thus, this podcast show is an attempt to articulate, to converse and to put in relation these floating thoughts. While it relies on random impulses, the podcast is structured by thought-prompts focusing on everyday issues across space, time and works of life. Though it is not a live podcast, it somewhat mimics this approach in that for every episode, the conversation, which begins as a monologue, evolves into a dialogue through a phone conversation with someone else in another part of the world (a friend, a colleague, relative, expert in a subject, creator of a work, originator of an idea). This ensures a broadening of the thematic and locational context of the conversation as a way of demystifying distances. It is a weekly show intended to be spontaneous (as much as technical requirements and logistics allow). Future episodes will feature intro/excerpts of new music tracks made by me. Other times, it will reference aural materials sourced from different corners of everyday life. It will be freshly served – nothing preserved in the freezer! Listeners are encouraged to join the conversation by leaving a comment on the episode in their preferred platform of listening. Selected comments will be addressed in a subsequent episode.Emeka Okereke (host)Available on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google Podcast, Stitcher, Overcast, etc.

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