iBAND Magazine in Lagos, unravels the artistic odyssey of Yusuf Seidu Okus, from his early roots in Sapele, Nigeria, to his current home in Coventry, United Kingdom.

Yusuf’s path as a visual artist is richly woven with influences from his upbringing and a deep commitment to addressing societal issues through his colourful and experimental artworks. Discover how his journey unfolds and resonates globally in this insightful interview conducted by Ireho Aito.

Yusuf Seidu Okus is a distinguished Nigerian-born visual artist currently based in Coventry, United Kingdom. He is renowned for his evocative and experimental artworks. Born and raised in Sapele, Nigeria, Yusuf’s artistic journey began from his childhood, influenced by a local Sign Writer in an abode he lived and nurtured by supportive parents who championed his passion for art. His career has been marked by a deep commitment to addressing social issues such as mental health advocacy and environmental sustainability through his vibrant and thought-provoking creations. Yusuf’s art not only reflects his personal experiences and cultural heritage but also resonates internationally, making him a compelling voice in the contemporary art scene.

Q: Can you share with us your upbringing and family background in Nigeria? How did these shape your path into visual experimental art?

A: I was born and raised in Sapele, in Nigeria’s Niger Delta region, to Mr. & Mrs. Yusuf Isa Oshiobugie. Art has been a natural gift since childhood, influenced greatly by Mr. Williams, a Sign Writer in my neighborhood. Despite my parents’ initial uncertainty about a career in art, they supported my passion. I vividly recall my dad’s intervention to ensure I could study Fine Art in secondary school, pivotal for my artistic aspirations.

Q: What was life like in Nigeria before your move to the UK? Were there specific challenges or opportunities that shaped your early career?

A: Prior to relocating, I worked as an Art Production Officer at the Federal Neuro Psychiatric Hospital in Benin City. This role, focused on rehabilitation through expressive art therapy, profoundly influenced my career direction. It sensitized me to issues like mental health advocacy and environmental sustainability, themes that continue to inspire my work.

Q: What motivated you to pursue visual experimental art, and how did you develop your passion for this field?

A: I’ve always been drawn to creative activities, feeling a natural inclination towards visual materials since childhood. This passion deepened during my education at the Federal Polytechnic Auchi, where I honed my skills and embraced experimentation as a vital part of my artistic process.

Q: How has your education contributed to your development as an artist? Were there any particular experiences or mentors that were pivotal in your journey?

A: Studying at the Federal Polytechnic Auchi provided a broad artistic perspective, though sometimes diverging from my natural inclinations towards more Westernized teachings. Nonetheless, interactions with mentors and established artists were invaluable, shaping my artistic identity and approach.

Q: Describe the process and emotions involved in relocating from Nigeria to the UK. What were the biggest adjustments you had to make?

A: Moving to Coventry brought significant changes, from adapting to a more solitary lifestyle to adjusting to cultural differences in weather, food, and language. Balancing personal responsibilities with artistic pursuits became a new challenge, requiring a reevaluation of my daily routine and creative process.

Q: How has living in Coventry, UK, influenced your work and creative process?

A: Coventry’s multicultural environment has enriched my art, inspiring exploration into themes like migration experiences, mental health advocacy, and environmental sustainability. These influences resonate strongly in my recent works.

Q: What are the main differences you’ve noticed between the art scenes in Nigeria and the UK? How do these affect your work and opportunities as an artist?

A: In Nigeria, direct artist-gallery interactions are common, whereas in the UK, art agents often mediate. Despite these differences, the UK offers more extensive support and investment in the arts, fostering a vibrant creative community.

Q: Could you share insights into your creative process? How do you conceptualize and develop your visual experimental projects?

A: My creative process is fluid, influenced by daily energies and external stimuli. It often begins with a spark—a location, conversation, or emotional response—that evolves through experimentation with various materials and techniques.

Q: What major themes or messages do you aim to convey through your art?

A: My art serves as a universal language, addressing themes like social issues, personal reflections, and historical narratives. I aim to provoke discourse and evoke emotional responses, fostering positive change through artistic expression.

Q: What future projects or goals do you have in mind for your career?

A: I aspire to expand my impact in mental health advocacy, environmental sustainability, and addressing challenges faced by migrants. These themes will continue to drive my artistic endeavors.

Q: How do you relax when not at work?

A: I enjoy playing table tennis, swimming, listening to music, and watching movies to unwind from my artistic pursuits.

Q: What is your daily routine like in the UK?

A: Each day presents unique challenges and opportunities, guided by a belief in achieving daily success through faith and perseverance.

Q: Do you keep in touch with people back home? How do you maintain these connections?

A: Yes, the internet facilitates regular communication, bridging distances through virtual interactions and occasional visits.

Q: Could you highlight an exhibition or body of work that was particularly transformative for your career?

A: My 2019 solo exhibition in Dubai was a memorable milestone, significantly shaping my artistic trajectory.

Q: Do you have a favorite music playlist for 2024?

A: I appreciate music that resonates with my soul and reflects the current times.

Q: What does the English Premier League mean to you?

A: While not a die-hard fan, I enjoy watching quality football games wherever they occur.

For more information about Yusuf Seidu Okus and his work, visit his website:
http://www.uniquelifestyleart.com.ng

Words/Ireho Aito/Don’t Keep Your Art in the Finger!/Photographs/Images/Yusuf Seidu Okus. Images displayed courtesy of Yusuf Seidu Okus