BIO

Retji Dakum, an interdisciplinary artist from Jos, Nigeria, practices filmmaking, mixed media, photography, and music. He earned an MFA in Filmmaking from the Maryland Institute College of Art (2020) and a BFA in Digital Art from The College of New Jersey (2015).

Retji's films have achieved global recognition. Notable solo showcases include screenings of his film "Nyam" at the Creative Alliance and Sankofa Children's Museum of African Cultures in Baltimore. His work has been featured in film festivals such as the Out of Africa International Film Festival, Kenya, West African Film Festival, Texas and Spotlight Documentary Film Awards, where "Nyam" garnered multiple awards. Early recognitions include the Gen-Y 2.0 DMV Aspiring Artist Show and the Made In Baltimore International Film Festival.

Highlighting his commitment to community and education with young artists and students, Retji currently leads the learning vertical at TASCK, has served as an instructor and mentor for Baltimore City Public Schools and co-facilitated their Global Citizenship Exchange Program to Nigeria. He also founded the Association of Students for Africa at The College of New Jersey, reflecting his dedication to cultural advocacy and leadership. Additionally, Retji has participated as a musician in the Black Futures Cypher in Baltimore, showcasing his versatility and engagement in the arts.

Some of his accolades include the RAGFF Cairo Egypt Award and Spotlight Documentary Film Award for "Nyam '' in 2023, alongside the Simon Boliver Achievement Award and the Presidents Purchase Award from The College of New Jersey. Continuing to push the boundaries of interdisciplinary art, Retji blends technical skill with a deep commitment to social advocacy and community development.

Artist Statement

My artistic practice is a celebration of my identity, a tribute to the resilience of my culture, and a call for connection. In each composition, photograph, and frame, I strive to create a space where the past and present converge, fostering curiosity, dialogue and understanding. As an interdisciplinary artist and polymath, my approach to my practice is one that uses expression, via different art mediums, as a means to shift our social paradigm to a better space.