Doba Afolabi’s artistic journey began in the mountains of southwest Nigeria, where he was born and raised. His early exposure to the world of art was greatly influenced by his mother, a versatile dancer, whose creative spirit ignited his passion for expression. As he embarked on his artistic path, Afolabi drew inspiration from a diverse range of sources, including renowned artists such as Monet, Van Gogh, Degas, and the stylized carvings of the Yoruba culture.
A pivotal chapter in Afolabi’s artistic formation unfolded at the famous Zaria Art School, where he quickly earned recognition as one of the “Zaria Rebels.” This artists’ collective was celebrated for their experimental style and bold use of color. During his time in school, Afolabi’s talent and innovative approach to artistry began to flourish.
Following his education, Afolabi briefly worked for the United Nations as a graphic designer, and he also dedicated time to teaching art at Yaba Technical College in Lagos, Nigeria. Eventually, his journey led him to New York City, where he currently resides in the vibrant borough of Brooklyn.
In 1999, Afolabi held his first solo exhibition, titled “Buffalo Soldier,” at the Asmar B Art Gallery in North East Miami, Florida. Since then, he has become a fixture at Black History Month art shows hosted on the campus of Florida International University. Afolabi’s artistic presence extends beyond Florida; he is also represented by Dorsey Gallery in New York and Zenith Gallery.
Over the course of approximately three decades, Nigerian American artist Doba Afolabi has evolved into an internationally acclaimed abstract expressionist painter, with representation in prestigious galleries worldwide.
Afolabi’s approach to painting is marked by a desire to imbue his creations with dynamic movement and a sense of rhythm. He seeks to avoid static compositions and instead crafts works that evoke a sense of flow, akin to musical notes dancing in harmony. His canvases come alive with a playful interplay of forms and colors, inviting viewers to engage with a diverse array of visual puzzles. Afolabi’s creative process is akin to composing a symphony of visual elements, with each stroke and color choice contributing to the overall harmony of the piece.
Born in southwest Nigeria, Afolabi honed his artistic skills at the Zaria Art School, where he gained a reputation for his rebellious and experimental style, characterized by bold and vibrant colors. The artist’s journey to the United States was catalyzed by an invitation to a major art show, coinciding with political tensions in his homeland. Choosing to stay in New York City, he began his full-time pursuit of a career as a studio artist in the early 2000s.
Afolabi’s art has graced international art markets, including Basel, ArtExpos, Frieze, and exhibitions with notable galleries such as ArtAfrica Basel, Miami, and Dorsey’s galleries. His subject matter spans a wide spectrum, encompassing themes of water, swimming, strong Black women, African imagery, jazz, hip-hop, music, history, landscapes, and occasional political commentary. He has captured the essence of iconic figures like Serena and Venus Williams, Beyoncé, Jay Z, and Queen Elizabeth II in his works.
Afolabi’s technique often employs “impasto art,” using thick swabs of paint to convey confident and colorful brushstrokes. His artistic process can be deliberate and contemplative, with some paintings taking years of contemplation before the first stroke is made, followed by months of meticulous work to bring them to fruition. Depending on the complexity of a piece, Afolabi’s artworks can command prices in the tens of thousands of dollars.
In his own words, Afolabi is an “entertainer on canvas,” drawn to social scenes that evoke happiness and entertainment. He eschews labels, preferring to focus on the communication of emotions and stories through his art. His signature, a lowercase rendering of his first name, is a deliberate part of each painting, and he views his artworks as if they were his children, each possessing a unique spirit.
Afolabi’s latest solo exhibition, “Post Pandemic Palette,” is a tribute to the spirit of hope and recovery in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic that shook New York City and the world. His ongoing journey includes an exciting venture into teaching art to young students at The Art of Words Community School (TAWCS) in DUMBO, Brooklyn, where several of his artworks adorn the school’s walls at 52 Bridge Street.
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