biography
Bukola Orioye (b. 1993, Osogbo, Nigeria) is a multidisciplinary artist whose work bridges African traditions with contemporary global narratives. A Chemistry graduate from the University of Ilorin (2015), Orioye trained under Tope Fatumbi at Topfat Art Gallery, Ibadan, in 2019. His practice spans figurative art, mixed media, and silhouettes, often focusing on African spirituality, cultural memory, and identity. Through inventive compositions, he merges traditional African effigies with modern fashion and punk influences, creating bold, metaphoric representations of the African experience across time. Orioye’s work invites viewers to rethink history, beauty, and the future, grounded in simplicity and deep introspection.
artist statement
As an artist, my practice is rooted in a deep-seated belief that art should be an active participant in the ongoing dialogue of life, a catalyst for reflection, a force for change and renewal. My work is driven by a compelling mantra: questioning the present through the past for a better future.
In a world where the present often feels overwhelming, I believe there is immense power and potential in revisiting the past. By delving into history, we can unearth perspectives, narratives, and truths that have been obscured or forgotten. The past holds a mirror to the present, revealing the patterns, pitfalls, and potential paths that lie before us. In my art, I strive to create an immersive dialogue between the past and the present, stirring the viewer to question the status quo and ponder what could be.
My art situates itself at the crossroads of time, a space where the past and the future intersect. It seeks to evoke a sense of temporal dislocation, provoking the viewer to challenge their perceptions and assumptions about the world around them. Often, my works are filled with historical references and anachronisms, contrasting and combining elements from different eras. This temporal layering serves as a metaphor for a world in flux and our collective journey through time.
The future, to me, is not a distant, abstract concept but a tangible reality that we shape with our actions in the present. I see my art as a tool for envisioning alternative futures, a catalyst for change. Each piece is a call to action, a plea for a better tomorrow. By questioning the present through the past, my art invites viewers to envision a future that is more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable.
Ultimately, my art is a form of inquiry and exploration, a visual conversation about the world and our place in it. It is a reflection of my belief in the transformative power of art and its potential to inspire change. By exploring the interplay of the past, present, and future in my work, I hope to stir a sense of curiosity, provoke thoughtful reflection, and inspire a commitment to creating a better future.
