MEET
Bukola Samuel
Born in 1993 and hailing from the vibrant city of Osogbo in Osun State, Nigeria, Orioye Bukola Samuel's artistic journey is a testament to the power of passion and persistence.
Growing up in Osogbo, with roots tracing back to Ido-Osi in Ekiti State, Bukola Samuel discovered his love for art at an early age. However, his path to pursuing a career in art was not without its challenges. It was a path that he would embark upon later in life, following his first degree in Chemistry.
With aspirations of pursuing a master's degree in chemistry at the prestigious University of Ibadan, fate had a different plan for him. It was during this time that his passion for art found a way to flourish. Under the guidance and mentorship of Mr. Tope Fatunmbi at Topfat Art Gallery in Adamasingba, Ibadan, Bukola Samuel embraced his calling and began his artistic journey in earnest in 2020.
Bukola Samuel's art draws profound inspiration from the intricate tapestry of societal issues and the myriad struggles that define the human experience. His creations serve as a poignant reflection of the beauty, culture, and resilience of people of color, with a special focus on women—the bearers of strength, grace, and unyielding spirit.
In his own words, his artistic philosophy can be encapsulated as "Questioning the present through the past for a better future." This thought-provoking approach infuses depth and meaning into every stroke of his brush.
Bukola Samuel's talent has not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by his participation in notable exhibitions around the world. From the Mitochondria Gallery in Houston, Texas, to the Black AIDS Institute and the Artists in Support of Refugees from Ukraine, his work has resonated with audiences on a global scale. His thought-provoking exhibitions, such as "Jẹjẹrẹ (Cancer)" at Orb Art Gallery in Osun, Nigeria, and "Accountability in Politics" in Abuja, Nigeria, have showcased his ability to address pressing issues through his art.
As a self-taught artist, Bukola Samuel's journey serves as an inspiring narrative of following one's passion, even when the path may seem uncertain. Through his art, he continues to challenge perspectives, ignite conversations, and envision a brighter future—one stroke of the brush at a time.
2022 - Mitochondria Gallery, Houston, Texas;
2022 - Impact: Black Aids Institute, Artsy;
2022 - Impact: Artist in support of Refugees from Ukraine, Artsy;
2021 - Jẹjẹrẹ (Cancer), Orb Art Gallery, Osun, Nigeria;
2021 - Accountability in Politics, Abuja, Nigeria.
