Behind the Canvas : An Insightful conversation with Gbolahan Ayoola on Art, Identity and Creativity.

Welcome to FashionEVO’s exclusive interview with His Royal Highness Ayoola Gbolahan, an esteemed artist whose work delves into human anthropology and spirituality. Conducted by our talented features associate Temilade Adeyombo, this conversation provides a unique opportunity to delve into the mind of a prominent contemporary artist based in Lagos, Nigeria. Known for his profound engagement with cultural identity and societal themes, Ayoola offers deep insights into his artistic journey and the broader contemporary art scene. Join us as we uncover the inspirations and perspectives that shape his remarkable body of work.

What inspired you to become an artist, and how did you find your unique style?  

I actually wanted to be an architect, but becoming an artist was my mother’s idea. I think it started with her noticing my talent when I was in primary school, creating and selling hand-drawn comics to my schoolmates. She encouraged my talent from then on.

Your artwork features vibrant colours and intricate patterns. Can you tell us more about the cultural influences behind your work?

Cultural influences in my work can be traced to my royal lineage. My father was an Oba, and my ancestor is Obatala Orishanla, the moulder of all humans. My mentor, Tola Wewe, is a chief in Ondo State and a Yoruba anthropologist who favoured the vibrant colours of Yoruba masquerades. All these influences played significant roles in my formative years as a young artist.

We see a fusion of traditional African motifs with contemporary styles in your artwork. What processes are involved in blending the elements?

It all starts with my interest in human anthropology. I am fascinated by everything about humans, including characteristics, languages, cultures, environments, and social relationships. I don’t look at humans in parts or places; I like to go all the way back to when social divides, and politics as we know it today didn’t exist.

When land borders did not exist, when racism did not exist, things like that; I project myself into those times and begin to imagine how all our actions are interconnected. That’s where I start my work. Today, I can create a painting by blending all the cultures known to me into one piece, and they blend seamlessly because such blends have existed throughout human history. It’s not something new. I just have to look back in time to see it.

Your art often explores themes of culture, identity, and spirituality. How do you think your audience interprets and connects with these themes? 

Aren’t we all spiritual beings? Don’t we all have minds that travel back and forth in time through thoughts? Aren’t we all affected by social constructs such as borders, tribalism, racism, elitism, and segregation today? Aren’t we all impacted by the  “babelitic”  effects of language?

I create art about these themes because they are universal human experiences that we can relate with.. It’s easy to connect with my work because I’m not speaking in abstract terms. What you see is realism—your reality.

What role do you think art plays in today’s society, particularly in representing diverse cultures and identities?

I think art is acting as a bridge of sorts. I think art is a sort of weapon—not of war, but of change; or a wand to direct. Inasmuch as art can be seen to be showcasing individualities, I think it’s also showing that before what we are today, we were just humans occupying, procreating, and nurturing. Art can show humans being defined by the colour of their skin, but at the same time, showing you how similar we all are in our actions.

This is what I see art doing today.

Can you walk us through a typical day in your life as an artist?

Firstly, I must say I mostly sleep during the daytime, so my ‘day’ typically starts around 3 pm. I spend time with my family until nighttime, around 9 pm, when I head to the studio to work. However, I don’t go to the studio every day. On some days, I dedicate my time to reading and research.

How do you stay creatively inspired and motivated to create new artwork?
I surround myself with people who challenge me, whether they are dead or alive. I also don’t see myself as an entertainer or my work as entertainment; instead, I see myself as a leader with a message or a messenger with deliverables. The weight of responsibility helps me focus and stay motivated.

What challenges have you faced in your artistic journey, and how have you overcome them?
I have worked here in Nigeria for most of my practice. I have never had a studio outside the country. I told myself a long time ago that I really want to be here because everything I need is here. The challenges, such as the lack of artistic institutions, grants, art materials, etc., have been a problem, but things are getting better. Maybe we just need some speed. We haven’t overcome these challenges, but we have ways of managing or mitigating them, such as importing materials, participating in international exhibitions and residencies abroad, etc., in the interim while we build our own.

Lastly, what advice would you give to aspiring artists who are looking to find their own unique style and voice?

Stay dogged. 

Being an artist is a huge responsibility to society and it takes all seriousness.

As our conversation with esteemed Ayoola Gbolahan HRH draws to a close, it’s evident that his journey is not merely one of artistic expression but of profound cultural and spiritual exploration. His insights into the interconnectedness of human experience and the powerful role of contemporary art in bridging traditions have provided us with a thoughtful perspective. We’re truly inspired by his dedication and vision, and it’s clear that his work will continue to resonate and inspire. We thank Gbolahan for sharing his valuable time and wisdom with us, and we eagerly anticipate his future endeavours that will undoubtedly continue to push the boundaries of art and culture. Thank you for joining us in this insightful interview, and we look forward to bringing you more compelling narratives from the world of contemporary art.