Agbalaya Abdulahi Opeyemi

Nigeria

"I describe my work as a vibrant fusion of tradition and innovation, reflecting my journey and the rich cultural tapestry of Nigeria. Each piece is a testament to my dedication, blending meticulous technique with boundless creativity."

MEET

Agbalaya Abdulahi Opeyemi

Agbalaya Opeyemi is a multi-talented and versatile artist who has a deep passion for creating art that reflects the beauty of the world around him. Born and raised in Nigeria, Opeyemi has always been drawn to the rich artistic traditions of his homeland, and he has dedicated himself to honing his craft through a combination of formal training and personal exploration.

In 2013, Opeyemi had his first training experience with the renowned artist Mr. Owolabi Samson, who helped him to develop his technical skills and deepen his understanding of the creative process. Since then, he has continued to expand his knowledge and expertise through ongoing training with Mr. Adenle Kehinde, a well-respected artist and mentor in the Nigerian art community.

Opeyemi's artistic style is characterized by its versatility and adaptability, as he works in a variety of mediums and styles to create art that is both unique and deeply personal. He is particularly drawn to the use of color and texture, which he employs to create bold, dynamic compositions that capture the essence of his subjects.

​Opeyemi is currently pursuing a degree in art education at Yaba College of Technology, where he is further developing his skills as an artist and preparing to share his knowledge and passion with the next generation of aspiring artists. With his talent, dedication, and boundless creativity, there is no doubt that Opeyemi will continue to make his mark on the world of art for many years to come.

FROM OUR BLOGUE
March 2025: A Month in Black Art

March 2025 witnessed pivotal moments in Black art, from groundbreaking exhibitions like "Paris Noir" at the Pompidou Center to concerning policy changes affecting cultural institutions. The art world also mourned the loss of esteemed figures such as artist Fred Eversley and Ethiopian art historian Elizabeth Giorgis.

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54 ART FAIR EVENT

Bantu Collective introduces the 54 Art Fair to Geelong, celebrating the artistic heritage of Africa's 54 nations. The exhibition, running from April 1 to 25 at genU Gallery, showcases a blend of traditional and modern art forms, including installations and multimedia works. Visitors can immerse themselves in cultural workshops, live music, and interactive experiences that highlight the continent's rich diversity.

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Empowering African Art: +234Art Fair Returns for Its Second Edition

The +234Art Fair is back for its second edition, running from March 27th to 31st, 2025, at the Ecobank Pan African Center (EPAC) in Victoria Island, Lagos. This year's theme, "Championing Patronage in Nigerian Art," aims to explore the transformative power of patronage in driving the growth and sustainability of Nigerian art. The fair will feature over 1,000 artworks from emerging and unrepresented Nigerian artists, providing them with a platform to showcase their talents to local and international audiences.

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5 Must-Attend Contemporary African Art Fairs and Events

Contemporary African art is taking the world by storm, and these five must-attend fairs and biennales are at the heart of its rise. From the global powerhouse 1-54 to the electrifying ART X Lagos, and the prestigious Dak’Art Biennale, these events showcase the best of African artistic talent. Whether you’re a collector, curator, or art enthusiast, these fairs offer an immersive experience into the dynamic world of African creativity. Dive into the highlights, past record-breaking sales, and groundbreaking exhibitions that make these events unmissable.

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Thó Simões Transforms Pumangol Drums into Artworks

As part of Brands with Art, Pumangol partnered with acclaimed Angolan street artist Thó Simões to create a unique fusion of industrial design and artistic expression. Simões painted five metal drums, drawing inspiration from Pumangol’s slogan Criar Boa Energia (Creating Good Energy). Using plants to symbolize pure energy and human figures to highlight his artistic signature, the project connects sustainability with the vibrancy of Angolan culture. The transformation was documented in a video that will accompany the exhibition, showcasing Pumangol’s commitment to the arts and its role in fostering cultural engagement.

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New Hub for Creativity in Maputo: A Vision for Mozambique’s Cultural Future

A new Art Center and Artist Residency is taking shape in Maputo’s Dona Alice neighborhood. With 2,100m² of space, the center will include exhibition halls, artist residences, a digital library, and multi-use areas. Currently 30% complete, the self-funded project aims to train 300 artists annually, promote local art and crafts internationally, and contribute to Mozambique’s creative economy. Supported by the Secretary of State for Arts and Culture, this initiative seeks to professionalize the art sector and provide sustainable income opportunities for artists.

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End of an Era for the Black Lives Matter Plaza

In March 2025, Washington, D.C.’s Black Lives Matter Plaza saw the removal of its famous street mural, first commissioned in 2020 as a symbol of protest against racial injustice. The decision, influenced by congressional threats to cut federal funding, has reignited debates about the role of public art in activism. While some view it as a political concession, others see it as an opportunity for new artistic expressions in the city. Mayor Muriel Bowser has announced plans to integrate the plaza into the "America 250" initiative, encouraging new murals that reflect ongoing struggles for justice and equality.

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