About Oluwabamise G Ogunlade :
Tell us about your artistic background and experience. What led you to pursue art as a creative outlet?:
I got into art because I’ve always felt things deeply — like, on a level that was hard to explain with words. I see emotion, meaning, and beauty in things most people overlook. Art became my way of expressing all that — not just to show what I see, but to help others feel it too. It’s more than just creating pictures for me… it’s how I release, understand, and connect.
What inspires you as an artist? Are there specific themes or subjects that you find yourself drawn to?:
As an artist, I’m deeply inspired by emotion and the unspoken moments in life — the things people feel but don’t always say out loud. I’m drawn to subjects that carry depth, vulnerability, or a certain quiet strength — whether it’s the human face, the body, or scenes that evoke mood or spirituality. I love exploring themes like stillness, identity, inner conflict, and the energy that exists in silence. My art is a way of capturing what lives beneath the surface.
What do you hope to communicate or evoke through your art? Is there a specific message or emotion that you strive to convey to your audience?
Through my art, I hope to communicate what words often can’t — the emotions that live in silence, the weight of things unspoken, and the spiritual depth within everyday moments. I want people to pause, feel, and maybe even see a part of themselves reflected in the work. I’m not just trying to tell a story — I’m trying to create a space where emotion, vulnerability, and healing can exist without judgment. If someone looks at my work and feels understood, seen, or moved, then I’ve done what I came to do.
Are there any particular artists or art movements that have influenced your work? How have they shaped your artistic perspective?
Yes, I’ve been influenced by both global and African artists whose works go beyond beauty — they carry emotion, identity, and spirit. Internationally, I connect with movements like Expressionism and Symbolism because they’re about more than technique — they tell the truth of what’s inside. Artists like Egon Schiele and Käthe Kollwitz taught me that vulnerability can be powerful.
From the African side, I deeply admire artists like Ben Enwonwu and Bruce Onobrakpeya for how they rooted their work in culture, storytelling, and spiritual meaning. Contemporary Nigerian artists like Njideka Akunyili Crosby also inspire me — she blends personal narrative with bold imagery, and that kind of honesty stays with me.
All these influences have shaped my perspective — they taught me not to just paint what’s seen, but what’s felt. And that’s the heart of my work.
How do you handle criticism or feedback on your artwork? How do you use it to grow and improve as an artist?
I try to see criticism and feedback as part of the journey, not a threat to my creativity. At first, it’s not always easy — especially when you’ve poured your emotions into a piece — but I’ve learned to separate myself from the work and listen for what’s useful. Not every opinion will align with my vision, and that’s okay. But when feedback is constructive, I use it as a mirror — it helps me see from another perspective and pushes me to refine my technique, storytelling, or emotional delivery.
Growth doesn’t happen in comfort, so I welcome honest feedback — as long as it’s coming from a place of insight, not just opinion.
Are there any specific goals or aspirations you have for your artistic career? How do you plan to pursue them?
Yes, I have some clear goals for my art career. One of my biggest aspirations is to create work that not only speaks to people emotionally but also lives beyond borders — to exhibit internationally, collaborate with other creatives, and represent a unique African voice in contemporary art. I also want to build a strong platform where younger or emerging artists can be inspired, mentored, or empowered.
To get there, I’m focused on consistently refining my craft, telling honest stories through my art, and staying open to learning and growing. I’m also working on building my brand, sharing my work more publicly, and entering spaces — online and offline — that align with my vision. For me, it’s not just about fame or sales; it’s about purpose, impact, and staying true to the message I’m called to share through my art.
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