1) What is your name, what do you do for a living and how long have you been engaged in this line of business?

My name is Ayobola Kekere-Ekun. I’m a visual artist who predominantly works with a variety of materials and I’ve been practising for almost five years

 

2) What inspired you to become an artist and was this what you studied at the university?

I’ve always had creative tendencies. I’ve been drawing for as long as I can remember. Luckily I had parents who actively encouraged their children’s interests. I have a B.A. and M.A. in Graphic design from the Department of Creative Arts, University of Lagos where I also teach, but I stumbled into my practice as a studio artist accidentally. I’m currently pursuing a PhD in Art and Design at the University of Johannesburg.

 

3) How has living in Lagos influenced you and your brand?

I don’t think it’s possible to live and work in Lagos and escape its influence. Sometimes it almost feels like a formless main character constantly breathing down your neck. I’d say working in Lagos has forced me to be a relentless but flexible worker. It’s almost like playing a video game that’s ruthlessly programmed against you and you often have to play the same level several times to move ahead. It’s not impossible; it’s just difficult.

 

4) Where do you get your inspiration from and what do you do when you experience artist’s block?

I’m inspired by everything I come in contact with. Things I see or read; stories I overhear; people I interact with. The list is endless.

I have a ritual for getting over artist’s block. First I log off all social media. Then I reread a book. It has to be a book I’ve read and enjoyed before. It’s like catching up with an old friend. Then I watch Beyonce’s “I Am” world tour. Works every time.

 

5) Can you name a few Challenges you’ve encountered along the way and how you overcame them?

This probably sounds really dramatic, but I think just daring to thrive in a country like Nigeria and a city like Lagos is the biggest challenge ever. I try my best to overcome it every day by being ruthlessly single-minded and not allowing myself to make excuses.

 

6) What is your biggest achievement?

It hasn’t happened yet.

 

7) Where do you hope to see your brand in the next 5- 10 years?

I’d like to see my practice evolve into something more than a footnote in history.

 

8) What is your most memorable experience in Lagos (good or bad)?

This is a weird one, but it has to be the day I saw a Danfo driver use his indicator. I almost passed out in shock.