Tosin Ogunniyi

Nigeria

Charcoal and Acrylic Painting by Tosin Ogunniyi

Contemporary Nigerian Art and Black Identity

Fine Art Collectors and Feminine Figurative Artists

"His art captures the respect for feminine figures in society and the broader black community. Merging charcoal and acrylics, he skillfully represents black and conceptual themes in his work."

MEET

Tosin Ogunniyi

Tosin Ogunniyi (b. Nigeria) is a multidisciplinary artist from Eruwa, Oyo State, whose practice blends charcoal and acrylics to explore themes of black identity, femininity, and emotional resilience. Currently based in Lagos, he holds a National Diploma in Fine Art from The Ibarapa Polytechnic (2016–2018) and is pursuing a Bachelor's degree at the University of Lagos.

A formative turning point in Ogunniyi’s journey was his industrial training at Oluwole Omofemi’s studio in Ibadan, where he absorbed essential techniques and a deepened artistic vision. His work reflects a nuanced narrative shaped by his upbringing — raised by a single mother after the loss of his father — grounding his exploration of love, hope, faith, romance, body positivity, and social equity.

Ogunniyi’s portraits often centre on underrepresented or marginalized voices, particularly within the Black community and feminine figures. His works confront notions of dominance and elevate kindness, empathy, and equality as central values. Each composition is guided by intimate observation and an intent to challenge societal norms while honoring everyday resilience.

With growing recognition, his pieces now reside in private collections across Nigeria and abroad. Tosin Ogunniyi emerges as a powerful voice in contemporary African art, offering visual storytelling that is as introspective as it is socially resonant.

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