This weeks Featured Artist... ELLIS ADEYEMO OYEKOLA
ELLIS ADEYEMO OYEKOLA
I was born into a family of Yoruba woodcarvers in Ogbomoso South West of Nigeria in 1954. I have six international awards and numerous national awards. Im the CEO and founder of Centre for Afrikan art and Designs Awotan Ibadan Nigeria.
Describe yourself in 5 sentences... " I am...
1. An art teacher(Rtd). 2. A Painter.
3. A Muralist.
4. A Batik maker. 5. An Art Historian with BA,MA,Ph.D. "
What gets your creative juices flowing? / How does inspiration come to you? " Passion for Art/Intuitive. "
Why do you create art? " To educate visually,entertain,tell stories,histories,send messages,for pleasure, social and commercial. "
What has been the highlight of your career so far? "Collection of my Paintings by the World Bank for an International exhibition, AFRICA NOW in 2009."
Where would you like your art to take you? " All over the world, especially Australia,which I have not been to. "
How does your artwork relate to current issues in the world? " Expression of Current world issues especially on Africa using my current style of painting." Does art always have to have a deeper meaning?

 " Sometimes abstract art could be untitled to give the onlooker a sense of participation. " Who/what inspires you? Why?

 "My mentors (Elderly contemporary Nigerian artists and their works.)"
What brings you joy? "Painting and Music."
How would you like to be remembered? " Immortalise my works. "
What would you say to your younger self? "Believe in oneself, Focus, have faith and confidence."
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