Insight, 2023

Kehinde Mayowa   Emerging artists

Kehinde Mayowa Joseph is a Nigerian visual artist born on November 10, 1994, in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. He holds a National Diploma in General Art from The Polytechnic Ibadan (2015) and a Higher National Diploma in Painting from The Polytechnic Auchi (2020). His artistic journey was shaped under the mentorship of Onofua Denies and master painter Akinola Ebenezer. He further honed his skills through workshops led by Alvin Usman and Kesa Babatunde in 2020.

His work explores the essence of African identity, focusing on the influence of contemporary fashion on society. By incorporating intricate floral motifs, he highlights the vibrancy of youth, celebrating their bravery, unique style, and resilience in the face of challenges. His paintings are distinguished by expressive compositions and a dynamic interplay of colors that evoke a sense of movement and depth. Notable works include Euphoria 1 (2023), an acrylic on canvas measuring 61.5 x 61.5 cm, and Patience (2022), a 92 x 92 cm acrylic painting that embodies his signature style. Kehinde Mayowa regularly shares his creative process and latest artworks on Facebook, where he encourages his followers to “trust the process" and embrace artistic evolution. He is also highly active on Instagram, showcasing his portfolio, collaborations, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of his creative world.

Recently, Kehinde Mayowa has been gaining increased recognition in the contemporary art scene. He was also spotlighted by BEOPEN Art, which praised his academic background and his commitment to exploring African identity through his artistic expression. With an expanding collector base and international interest in his paintings, he continues to refine his techniques, experimenting with new textures, layered compositions, and vibrant contrasts. He has also been exploring larger-scale canvases, allowing for more intricate details and bolder visual storytelling. As his artistic career progresses, his impact on the Nigerian and global art market continues to grow, solidifying his reputation as an artist to watch.