I find Gbonjubola’s works dazzling. They enliven and energize me, besides seducing me with their aesthetic appeal. Naturally, their magnetic power prompted me to find out more about this artist, and, a few days later, she and I met via video call.

Passionate about creating new things from waste materials, Gbonjubola’s artistic journey dates back to her childhood in her aunt’s sewing workshop in Ibadan, Nigeria. Amazed by the fabrics she saw there, she insisted that her aunt give her the scraps to create something. Her aunt finally relented, and one day, on her way back from some errands, she came across her niece’s sumptuous creation. From then on, she encouraged Gbonjubola to follow a path where she could fully express her creativity.

Growing up, the budding artist practiced with love and discipline and entered Auchi Polytechnic (Edo State), from which she graduated in Fine Arts in 2017. She’s been a full-time artist ever since.

Each of her works is made by hand in a laborious process that begins with template drawing and fabric cutting and ends with pinning and sewing.

Gbonjubola loves to riff on traditional weaving patterns and colorful African outfits (made of Ankara fabrics) while ripping apart some of them and affixing them to the work, all combined with salvaged materials, acrylic, and oil paint. This elaborate combo offers the observer fantastic optical illusions and stunning effects of acid drips and pixelated glitches.

She draws inspiration from her environment and aims to create a rich and elegant representation of femininity, focusing on body positivity, sisterhood, and the deconstruction of misconceptions of what it means to be a woman, such as that physical attractiveness is the most important aspect of a woman. Through her art, Gbonjubola tells visual narratives while promoting African cultures.

Her dream? To keep using waste materials to create beautiful pieces for people and, while doing so, encourage upcoming artists worldwide to embrace their artistic gifts and potential.

Many thanks to you, Gbonjubola, for this very pleasant conversation. As I said to you in person, your paintings are as elegant as you are.😊 Because believe me, this artist sure knows how to dress with class and refinement.

If you’d like to brighten up and beautify your walls, don’t hesitate to contact Gbonjubola to acquire one or more of her splendid works here: https://www.instagram.com/bolaobatuyi_art/?hl=en

Location: Ibadan (Nigeria)