Babafemi Ogunkanmbi

Biography

Babafemi Ogunkanmbi is from South-West Nigeria. He holds a National Certificate in Education (NCE) in Fine and Applied Arts; a Bachelors degree in Fine and Arts Education (B.A Ed.) in OAU, Nigeria and is currently studying a Masters in Fine and Applied Arts in Museum and Curatorial Studies.

Babafemi has participated in numerous art competitions and exhibitions both at national and international level. His art over the years has revolved around two themes, 'Equity and Justice'. He is wholly inspired by the culture and the environment in which he finds himself. This has propelled him to explore his art with a good blend of African styles by dominating African traditional motifs and lines in his artworks.

Babfemi uses lines in his works that are scarifications through the entire face and body of his figurative and portrait paintings. This holds a special place in his heart, as he too is scarified and often gets segregated amongst his peers. However he sees his scarrs as a sign of power, a uniqueness from his family lineage which serves as beauty and social identity.

Artist Statement

I am black, I am scarified, I am not wicked, I am beautiful, I care and love. I am highly intelligent and curious to see myself and my art as an agent of social change. My art is an expression of love and emotional feelings to the larger society. My story will make more people around the world curious, edcuated and empathetic towards art and culture. I am an agent of social change, encouraging responsible culture towards the consciousness of black people's true self and ability. My mission is to make everyone see that we live to make the world more livable and sustainable for ourselves and generations yet unborn.