"Art is a vehicle of communication that illustrates, documents, and projects the human experience in infinite, seamless transition.
In my opinion, the 'isms', 'schisms', and usually superficial and calculated trends in art are of little or no interest to me - My essential motivation is the endless pursuit of excellence, personal fulfilment, and a cherished, privileged pride-of-place in the annals of history."
Abiodun Olaku is a highly respected Nigerian contemporary artist renowned for his mastery of realism in painting. Born in Lagos, his love for art can be traced back to his early days at Baptist Academy, Lagos, between 1970 and 1975.
As a young artist, he proceeded to the Yaba College of Technology where he studied under the mentorship of renowned pioneering Nigerian contemporary artists of the 20th century such as Kolade Oshinowo, the late Dr. Isiaka Osunde, and Prof. Yusuf Grillo.
In his 43-year career, he has established his place as a master of his generation and a leading figure in the Nigerian art scene. Olaku’s professional experience includes administrative, mentoring, curatorial, entrepreneurial, and consulting activities, he is a founding member and trustee of the Guild of Professional Fine Artists of Nigeria, one of the founders and trustees of Universal Studios of Art, National Theatre, Lagos, and a member of the Society of Nigeria Artists (SNA).
Olaku continues to mentor, train, and inspire many of Nigeria’s notable emerging artists to this day.