Contemporary Artist & Cultural Custodian
OLAart Gallery is more than a collection of artworks—it’s a space where creativity and emotion merge. Founded by Gbolahan Olanipekun, the gallery reflects personal experiences, cultural influences, and a deep passion for artistic expression.
From an early age, I found art to be a powerful medium for storytelling. Inspired by nature, human emotions, and the intricate details of everyday life, my work explores themes of transformation, identity, and connection. Each piece is crafted to evoke thought, emotion, culture, and dialogue.
"I don't just create art - I breathe life into ancestral memories, transforming oral histories into visual mantras for modern times."
The core mission of OLAart Gallery is to create and showcase captivating artwork that inspires, evokes emotion, and fosters deep connections, whether through visual art creations, custom commissions, or digital creations. It aims to attract collectors, art enthusiasts, and those seeking unique, custom pieces while providing seamless communication for buyers, collaborations, and inquiries.
Art stands as a vibrant compass that not only reflects society but also directs its evolution, igniting conversations and challenging the status quo
At its core, art is the language of the soul—a timeless dialogue that transcends generations. It communicates the unsaid, questions the conventional, and invites us to explore deeper truths about human existence, anchoring us in the values that have shaped our collective consciousness.
Within the rich and diverse tapestry of African heritage, art serves as a cultural compass that honors ancient traditions while illuminating modern realities. It encapsulates the struggles, triumphs, and wisdom of our ancestors, offering a bridge between the past and the future—a steadfast reminder of who we are and where we come from.
As an artist deeply immersed in African culture, my mission is to harness this transformative power of art to guide and inspire. Through each creation, I strive to honor the legacy of my forebears while forging innovative pathways that empower communities and ignite social change—keeping our heritage alive and relevant in today’s world.
2021
Celebrating artistic excellence rooted in cultural integrity and community impact
2022
A publication of National museum AbeokutaThe Omoluabi Award Publication
2022
A publication of National museum AbeokutaThe Omoluabi Award Publication
2024
Recognizing innovative contributions to contemporary visual arts
Heritage of Education
First Price Winner
2022
National commission for Museum and Monument
Where Creativity and Cultural Legacy Converge
OLAart Gallery transcends mere exhibition space - it's a living dialogue between ancestral wisdom and contemporary vision. Established by Gbolahan Olanipekun, our foundation rests on three pillars:
"Each stroke carries the weight of Ìbejì twins' laughter, the rhythm of Ogún's forge, and the whisper of Odùduwà's breath."
OLAart Gallery Ltd is a registered UK company (No. 16256109)
Compliant with UK Art Council standards and CINOA ethics guidelines
Multidisciplinary, London-based visual artist with over 8 years of experience combining traditional African storytelling with contemporary mediums, including photography, mixed media, digital media, and installations, to explore themes of identity, cultural heritage, resilience, and collective memory.