SOULMATE Print

Oluwafemi Afolabi, the chiropteric Painter is a native of Ogbomoso South Local Government of Oyo State, though birthed in the Northern part of Nigeria where he started his elementary education. His parent migrated to their native land where he then completed his elementary schooling and had his secondary education thereafter. ‘Femi’s foray into the world of Art started informally after his secondary school education when he enrolled as a trainee of Graphics and Sign Writing at Mide Print in Oyo town and has since then pursued his life - long dream of becoming an Artist with passion. This irreversible pursuit has culminated in his crescendo as the uncharacteristic painter whose paintings classically reflect animal symbolism, with the unprecedented reflections of the chiropteran bats. The journey however has been far from being smooth especially after Olufemi lost his Dad as a lad. But big thanks to his Mum who dualized her role as both father and mother. The maverick painter later proceeded to the well-regarded Emmanuel Alayande College of Education Oyo, Oyo state and graduated as a Painting and Graphic Specialist in 2017. Interestingly, ’Femi has recently completed his bachelor’s Degree programme in Fine and Applied Arts at the prestigious Obafemi Awolowo University (ACE chapter). Artist Statement To be precise, my art is my means of self-expression, the reflection of my community and the appreciation of nature; an avenue to capture and narrate the untold stories of many that dwells at the other side of affluence. Furthermore, my craft seek to draw attention to the interesting world of women and everything that surrounds her. i.e., her likes, beauty, struggles, indescribable love for children and her intriguingly complex emotional entanglements in such a compelling manner Given that I am an otherwise introverted fellow, the blank canvass becomes my platform to identify with the downtrodden and encourage the fearful. My meticulous renditions intentionally speaks of hope and a brighter tomorrow as taught by the holy scriptures notwithstanding the uncertainties and doubts of today.