MEET
Akindele John
Akindele John is a Nigerian figurative and metaphorical artist whose passion for painting began early and continues to evolve today. Through expressive lines and rich, layered colour, he creates vibrant portraits that honour African womanhood and the complexity of the diaspora experience.
His work explores themes of movement, emotion, and distinction, with a particular focus on the femininity and inner strength of African women. Often depicted in contemplative moments, his figures are surrounded by vivid jewel tones — emerald, fuchsia, yellow, and red — symbolising power, resilience, and cultural memory.
Known for his loose brushwork and bold use of contrast, Akindele blends black tones with luminous hues to build compositions that are both intimate and universal. His visual language bridges metaphor and realism, drawing on lived experience and cultural heritage.
Akindele held his first solo exhibition in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, titled "And She Was Loved", in collaboration with Genre Urban Arts and Woodland Pattern. Since then, he has showcased his work across the United States, including exhibitions at Waterkolours Fine Art Gallery (Memphis, Tennessee), 5 Points Art Gallery + Studios, and SvnO1 Gallery.
Today, Akindele is recognised as a rising voice in contemporary African art, using portraiture to celebrate identity, memory, and the brilliance of African womanhood.