BIOGRAPHY
Damilola Olusegun Joy, an artist from Sagamu, Ogun State, Nigeria, found her love for art during her teenage years, encouraged by her father. Following his passing in late 2016, she committed to pursuing art as a tribute to his memory. By 2018, Damilola had created a substantial portfolio and debuted her work through a self-funded art exhibition at her science academy, involving family support and showcasing talents from her institution and others. The success of the event reinforced her path, earning her the title of Best Young Visual Artist in 2019 by The Everyday Chapter.
Damilola honed her skills through YouTube tutorials, inspired by professionals like Ken Nwadiogbu and Clio Newton. Her work predominantly features portraits, often using charcoal and acrylic, and explores large-scale canvases. While her art does not depict her likeness, it powerfully conveys emotions of loss, heartache, and the struggles of young adulthood, reflecting her journey after her father’s death. Simultaneously, her pieces radiate themes of hope, joy, and love, offering a universal narrative that resonates deeply with viewers. Damilola’s artistic evolution continues to be driven by a desire to connect emotionally and visually with her audience.
ARTIST STATEMENT
My art celebrates the natural world, capturing its beauty and complexity through vibrant creations, particularly with flowers as my central motif. Nature symbolize hope, resilience, and inspiration, offering what I describe as a “hug for the soul.” My work is more than just a visual delight, it’s a conversation starter. Each element reflects the delicate balance between nature’s beauty and pressing global issues like climate change, mental health, and social justice, encouraging reflection and dialogue.
I primarily work with charcoal and acrylic, blending the soft textures of charcoal with the bold vibrancy of acrylic. This combination allows me to create dynamic layers, balancing subtlety and intensity. My canvases are vibrant yet purposeful, with every flower carrying a deeper narrative, blending serenity with urgency.
Through my art, I aim to bridge the tranquil beauty of nature and the complexities of our world. I want viewers to pause, appreciate, and consider how beauty and meaningful change can coexist. Whether depicting delicate blossoms or vast landscapes, my work conveys a sense of awe, hope, and connection to the world around us, inspiring others to cherish and protect it.
