When I first encountered Olaonipekun’s art online, I was immediately captivated by two standout qualities: its beauty and its remarkable diversity. I felt as though I had stumbled upon an artist brimming with expansive talents. From canvas paintings to body art, and jewelry design to creation, this ‘artistic octopus’ left me in awe.

To focus my admiration, however, I’ll direct my attention to the discipline I know best: painting.

Olaonipekun’s work—spanning portraits, abstracts, and still lifes—continually draws me in with its raw expressionism, subtlety, and originality. Yet, if I’m being completely honest, I find myself especially drawn to his urban landscapes. These pieces brilliantly capture the vibrant soul of Lagos, Nigeria, in all its unrefined glory. It didn’t take long for me to decide that I had to connect with this artist and explore his artistic universe further.

A few weeks later, Olaonipekun and I had the opportunity to meet via video call. He shared his journey and vision with me, offering fascinating insights into his world. And now, it’s time to introduce him in a way that truly does him justice.

Olaonipekun Samuel Onafuye, also known by the brand name Franklin Hart, is a Nigerian expressionist painter whose work offers a compelling exploration of identity, personal growth, and transformation. A graduate of the University of Lagos, Olaonipekun merges surrealism and expressionism in his art, often drawing inspiration from Yoruba mythology and the Yoruba concept of Ori, which represents destiny and inner potential.

Olaonipekun’s art reflects his deep engagement with the human experience—an exploration of resilience, in nature and humanity. His work invites viewers to reconnect with familiar sensations and memories, evoking emotions, dreams, fears, and aspirations. Through his striking pieces, he gives voice to these personal stories while encouraging reflection on the viewer’s journey.

One of Olaonipekun’s signature works is the Shoe Flower series, where he combines the imagery of worn shoes and boots with blooming flowers. The shoes—once symbols of labor and travel—are transformed into vessels of new life and growth. In this series, he explores themes of renewal and the transformative power of beauty, illustrating that even the most rugged or discarded objects can give birth to something extraordinary.

For Olaonipekun, art is a powerful release of the emotions that shape his soul. Each creation opens a window into his innermost world, inviting viewers to embark on their own emotional journeys. At its core, this artist’s ambition is to create pieces that speak directly to the soul, transcending the boundaries of gender, background, and status—making his art universally accessible and deeply personal to every observer.

Beyond his own work, Olaonipekun is passionately dedicated to nurturing the next generation of artists. He strives to create a supportive ecosystem where young talents can refine their craft and find their creative voices. With a deep desire to empower emerging artists, he aims to open doors of opportunity, guiding them as they grow and contribute to the vibrant, evolving artistic community.

Thank you, Olaonipekun, for allowing me to step into your ever-expanding artistic multiverse—where each piece unfolds like a new galaxy in the vast cosmos of your talent.

Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in his world as well—follow him here: https://www.instagram.com/franklin__hart/?hl=en

Location: Lagos (Nigeria)