Through dismantling Western colonial influence and embracing African heritage, Ayoola emerged as a captivating artist with a unique perspective.
Gbolahan Ayoola (b.1977), born and raised in the palace with a blend of traditional Yoruba culture and Christian beliefs, blossomed into a renowned contemporary African artist. His upbringing, steeped in the dichotomy of Esu and Christ, sparked his interest in exploring the theme of coloniality in African art. Despite initially failing to grasp the artistic significance of his surroundings, Ayoola's inherent talent flourished naturally. Educated at Obafemi Awolowo University, he discovered his artistic prowess exceeded that of his teachers. Through dismantling Western colonial influence and embracing African heritage, he emerged as a captivating artist with a unique perspective.
Ayoola's works have garnered international recognition, with exhibitions in prestigious galleries Worldwide. His art is featured in prominent collections, included in collections of reputable institutions such as the World Bank in Washington, USA; African Finance Corp, Nigeria; and The Nigerian National Gallery of Arts. And has been showcased on various digital platforms, including Netflix and Amazon Prime. Ayoola has received numerous awards, including the “54 Nigerian Art Masters" from the Greek Embassy of Nigeria.
Ayoola has thrived in the art industry for more than 20 years. A mentor and facilitator, Ayoola continues to inspire the next generation of artists and push boundaries with his thought-provoking creations.
Exhibition History
2023: 1:54 Contemporary London
2022: I Like You, You’re Different, AMG projects, Lagos
2022: ART X Lagos , Kanbi Projects
2021: My Profile - ChilliArts Projects , London
2021: ART X Lagos , Kanbi Projects
2020: What is drawing?, Kanbi Contemporary, London, UK
2019: Journey to Mastery - Didi Museum, Lagos
2019: In pursuit of oneness - Kuramo Beach Residence, Lagos, Nigeria
2018: Dark but not black - Temple gate, Lagos, Nigeria
2017: AYOOLA - Rele Gallery, Lagos, Nigeria
2015: STRIP- Rele Gallery, Lagos, Nigeria
2014: Metal - Face and cocks, Signature Beyond Gallery, Lagos Nigeria
2013: Ake Festival - World Bank, Ogun, Nigeria
2012: Nigeria Now - World Bank, Abuja, Nigeria
2011: Salon - Ohio, U.S.A
2011: The Last Pictures Show - Gondwana, Paris, France
2011: Arc Gallery - London, UK
2010: Art on Wheels - Accra, Ghana
2010: The Last Pictures Show VII - Gondwana, Douala, Cameroon
2009: Mind Reality - City Mall, Lagos, Nigeria
2009: Art-Renaissance - Artistic License, Lagos, Nigeria
2008: Salon - Johannesburg, South Africa
2008: Unbreakable Nigerian Spirit - Galerie 23, Amsterdam, Holland
2008: The World Bank Africa Now, Washington DC, U.S.A
2007: Spanish Embassy, Abuja, Nigeria
2007: Hellenic Images, Greek Embassy, Lagos, Nigeria
2006: Donald Ayoola I - Signature Beyond Gallery, Lagos, Nigeria
2005: Talent on the Palette II - Terra Culture, Lagos, Nigeria
2005: Talent on the Palette I - Terra Culture, Lagos, Nigeria
2001: Afas Adeyemi College - Ondo, Nigeria
1998: YMBOLISM - RugShop, Ibadan, Oyo, Nigeria