City boy ll Painting

Oluwatobiloba Fasalejo (b. 2000) is a Nigerian-based visual artist, painter, and storyteller from Ondo State, Nigeria. He earned his bachelor's degree in Fine Art Education at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife, Nigeria. Working across oil and acrylic mediums, Fasalejo merges African heritage with contemporary art. His works, focused on themes of resilience and adaptability, feature faces that embody the enduring spirit of African and black communities. Fasalejo's paintings often depict subjects that are not entirely formed but are presented as incomplete paintings, symbolizing the transient nature of memory. This concept extends to the background as well, adding depth to his compositions. Influenced by his grandmother's fading memories, Fasalejo's art uniquely captures the ephemeral quality of memory. Tribal marks, integral to his identity, enrich his canvases, serving as a profound connection to his roots. Fasalejo has participated in exhibitions across Nigeria and internationally, showcasing his artistry and cultural perspective. Through his art, which fuses personal narrative with cultural identity, Fasalejo emerges as a distinctive voice in contemporary art. Artist statement My art is a celebration of resilience, an exploration of the adaptive spirit inherent in African and black identities. Each face in my work tells a story of adaptation and endurance, reflecting the collective journey of a people known for their remarkable ability to thrive in diverse circumstances. A central theme in my art is the concept of fading memories, inspired by my grandmother's experience with memory loss. This theme is not only personal but resonates universally with the transient nature of memory and history. In my paintings, this is represented through a unique technique: I paint my subjects and elements in a way that they appear incomplete or partially formed, symbolizing memories as they fade and evolve over time. Additionally, tribal marks feature prominently in my work, reflecting my own identity. These marks, present on my face and hands, are a profound link to my heritage and are seamlessly integrated into my canvases. They stand as symbols of culture, identity, and a deep connection to my roots. Through my art, I aim to connect with the viewer on a deeper level, invoking a sense of shared experience and resilience.