MEET
John Ayobamidele
John Ayobamidele is a contemporary artist based in Lagos, Nigeria. Born and raised in Lagos, he discovered his talent for art at a young age, a discovery spurred by his parents' early divorce, which exposed him to society's challenges at just ten years old. Embracing the societal struggles, John found his path and dedicated himself to developing his artistic skills under the mentorship of Master Art Philosopher Olayinka Oyebola from 2007 to 2012.
In 2014, John pursued formal education in Fine Art at the prestigious Yaba College of Technology, School of Arts, Design & Printing. During his studies, he held his first major exhibition at the University of Lagos, J.P. Clark Gallery, in 2016, showcasing his artwork titled "The Motherhood." He participated in a group exhibition in 2017 with his piece "Who is Next" at the Yusuf Grillo Gallery, Yaba College of Technology, and exhibited at Eko Art Expo (Lagos @50) at Eko Hotel Lagos, Nigeria, the same year. In 2021, he exhibited at Channel Arthouse Foundation in Lagos alongside other galleries.
John majored in painting, mentored by distinguished figures such as Dr. Emmanuel Irokanulo, Dr. Mrs. Odun Orimolade, Dr. Mrs. Omoiege Titilayo, and Dr. Derin Aladegboungbe. His first major project was a visual documentation of the old Oshodi environment in Lagos before its modern innovations, completed in 2022.
His international debut came with Vaine Magazine in a group exhibition in the United Kingdom in 2022. Represented by Constance and Sons Gallery, an online virtual platform, John was also a volunteer for the Five Cowries Educational Initiative in partnership with the United Nations Development Program, contributing to educational and mural projects.