In this edition of iBAND Magazine, we sit down with Theophilus Adewuyi, a young but vibrant visual artist whose journey began in the heart of Osun State, Nigeria. From growing up surrounded by black-and-white photographs to creating bold, colourful works of art, Theophilus shares with Ireho Aito for iBAND Magazine, how his upbringing, family, and cultural heritage have shaped his creative path.

iBAND Magazine – Tell us, Theophilus, how did your journey as an artist begin?

Theophilus – It all started at home in Ada, Osun State. My father was a photographer, and we had this incredible album filled with black-and-white pictures. As a child, I was fascinated by those images, they had so much character. That’s when I knew I wanted to be an artist.

iBAND Magazine – Was your family supportive of your passion for art?

Theophilus – Absolutely. My dad encouraged me constantly. Wherever I went, I would draw. He noticed that and kept telling me to keep going. His encouragement really pushed me to take art seriously. He believed in me, and that meant everything.

iBAND Magazine – Were there any other mentors or people who influenced your growth?

Theophilus – Yes, a very important one was Mr. Bayo Okunnola, a friend of my dad’s. He is a writer and gave me a lot of support, especially during my JAMB preparation. He provided me with textbooks and guidance, which was a big help. Both he and my dad were strong influences in my life.

iBAND Magazine: It sounds like you grew up in a very artistic environment.

Theophilus – Definitely. Between my dad’s photography and Mr. Bayo’s writing, I was constantly surrounded by creativity. Even in our hometown of Iragbiji Olokemeji, there are these natural rock formations stacked on top of each other, it’s like living in a sculpture. All of that inspired me to keep exploring art.

iBAND Magazine – What inspired you to study art formally?

Theophilus – After writing my JAMB exams, I applied to Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU). I chose it because of its strong reputation and deep cultural roots in Osun State. I knew it was the right place to develop my skills further.

iBAND Magazine – How would you describe your artistic style today?

Theophilus – I am really drawn to striking colours. I want my art to grab attention from a distance, to make people stop and say, “Wow.” Indigo dye, in particular, has always fascinated me. It’s bold, traditional, and powerful.

iBAND Magazine – What keeps you going as an artist?

Theophilus – Curiousity. I always want to learn more, push myself, and go deeper into my roots. I want my work to reflect who I am and where I come from, and to inspire others along the way.

iBAND Magazine – When did your journey at Obafemi Awolowo University begin, and how would you describe the experience overall?
Theophilus – I started at OAU in 2017. Honestly, it wasn’t a smooth ride at the beginning. I faced quite a few challenges, especially in adapting to formal art education. But looking back, I am really grateful. The journey shaped me in so many ways.

iBAND Magazine – What were some of the biggest challenges you faced as a young artist entering university?
Theophilus – Before OAU, my exposure to art was quite limited. In secondary school, I didn’t have a proper fine arts teacher—just my dad’s friend who would lend me textbooks and encourage some light practice. So, coming into OAU and being introduced to ceramics, sculpture, and painting felt overwhelming. I was used to just pencil work.

iBAND Magazine – How did you manage to find your footing in such a demanding environment?
Theophilus – I had to learn fast, and thankfully, I wasn’t alone. I had amazing mentors like Odeyemi Oluwaseun and Aragbada Olayinka Stephen, who are both painters. They took me under their wing and helped me focus on my personal work. That personal focus ended up being a huge asset, even in handling school assignments.

iBAND Magazine – Did your peers also play a role in your growth?
Theophilus – Absolutely. I was lucky to meet friends and classmates who were always willing to teach and support me. I made it a point to humble myself, to stay open and learn from others. That mindset helped me grow immensely.

iBAND Magazine – What would you say was the most valuable lesson you learned at OAU?
Theophilus – That beyond the academic side, OAU is a place rich in learning and culture. You have to take advantage of both. It’s not just about passing courses, it’s about soaking up knowledge, building a creative community, and continuously developing your own style.

iBAND Magazine – And today, how do you reflect on your OAU experience?
Theophilus- It was tough, but it was worth it. Every challenge, every project, every person I met contributed to the artist I am becoming today. OAU taught me discipline, vision, and the importance of staying open to growth.

iBAND Magazine – Theophilus, you recently participated in the ‘Colours of Africa’ international arts festival in Turkey. How did that opportunity come about?
Theophilus – Yes, I was selected to represent Nigeria at the Colours of Africa Art Festival in Turkey. My use of colour in painting caught the attention of the organizers, and that opened the door for me to participate. It was an incredible experience that really helped shape my career and broaden my understanding of the global art scene.

iBAND Magazine – What was the atmosphere of the festival like, and what kind of art forms were represented?
Theophilus – It was a rich blend of creativity. There were painters, sculptors, and performers from different parts of Nigeria. For example, performers from Abuja came to showcase traditional Nigerian culture. It was inspiring to see so many forms of artistic expression come together in one space.

iBAND Magazine – You mentioned you were the youngest among the Nigerian artists selected. How did that affect your experience?
Theophilus – Being the youngest was actually a blessing. It gave me the chance to learn directly from more experienced artists such as painters, sculptors, performers. I watched how they developed their careers and handled themselves professionally. It was like a live mentorship session throughout the entire festival.

iBAND Magazine – What stood out to you most about Turkey and its people during your stay?
Theophilus – The people of Turkey were very warm and welcoming. Navigating through a new environment and meeting new faces was eye-opening. I learned a lot about their culture and way of life. It was also impressive to see how developed their art community is. I was able to engage with Turkish artists and learn from their experiences as well.

iBAND Magazine – Your work is known for blending traditional and modern techniques. How did you develop that unique balance?
Theophilus – I have been very intentional about balancing traditional Nigerian art forms with modern techniques. Being from Africa doesn’t mean we must stick solely to tradition, we can evolve, experiment, and blend. My work reflects that, combining the richness of our heritage with the innovations of contemporary art.

iBAND Magazine – What central themes do you explore in your art?
Theophilus – My work often speaks about people navigating through different environments. It’s about movement, adaptation, and cultural exchange, things that resonate deeply with my own experiences and observations.

iBAND Magazine – You mentioned your use of colour as an important part of your artistic language. Can you tell us more about that?
Theophilus – Absolutely. Colour plays a huge role in my work. Different cultures assign different meanings to colour, and I find that fascinating. I use colour not just for aesthetic purposes, but as a tool to communicate across cultural lines. I often combine monochromatic tones with realistic, vibrant hues to merge traditional African symbolism with modern visual storytelling.

iBAND Magazine – How has this blend of techniques and themes shaped your identity as an artist?
Theophilus – It has helped me find my voice. This blend allows me to honour my roots while also pushing boundaries. I have realised that innovation doesn’t have to erase tradition, it can elevate it. And that’s what I try to do in every piece I create.

iBAND Magazine – Theophilus, your work often features a strong use of colour and symbolism. Can you tell us about your creative process?
A: Before I begin a new piece, I usually pause to reflect on what people are going through at that moment. I listen to the news, observe conversations happening around me, and try to connect with what is current and real. My goal is to create something that people can truly relate to, something that speaks to the now.

iBAND Magazine – So your art responds to social and emotional realities?
Theophilus – Exactly. I want my art to contribute to ongoing conversations, especially about African culture, identity, and movement. What people are experiencing today, whether it’s migration, cultural exchange, or struggle, becomes part of the story I am telling through my work.

iBAND Magazine – You have mentioned your colour choices are deeply intentional. What do they represent to you?
Theophilus – I work a lot with monochromatic schemes, but I also play with vibrant, pure colours. These colours are not random, they are deliberate and meaningful. When people see my palette, I want them to feel an immediate connection to Africa. The way I use colour is rooted in traditional African painting techniques, but I apply them within a modern context. So my colours are not just aesthetic, rather, they are cultural signifiers.

iBAND Magazine – Your paintings seem to carry a sense of movement or transition. Is that intentional?
Theophilus – Very much so. A big part of my work is inspired by how people move, across borders, online, between cultures. When you look at one of my pieces, you would notice that it reflects a kind of global experience. It’s about adaptation and survival, about entering new environments and finding your place.

iBAND Magazine – What message do you hope people take away from your work?
Theophilus – That we are all connected. Whether you are from Turkey, Lagos, or New York, there’s a common humanity in our stories. I want my art to remind people that the same blood that runs in the veins of a white man in Europe is the same blood that runs in a Yoruba man from Africa. We are not as different as we often think.

iBAND Magazine – As an artist, there are always highs and lows in the creative process. How do you stay motivated during difficult times?
Theophilus – Honestly, one of the major things that keeps me going is the support of my friends. Whenever I feel down or uninspired, I make it a point to connect with other artists. I talk with them, listen to their stories, and learn how they have handled tough times in their careers. That alone gives me a lot of strength.

iBAND Magazine – So those conversations are part of your creative routine?
Theophilus – Absolutely. I also read books, especially ones that help me understand how artists and creatives navigate challenges. I find comfort in knowing I am not alone in the struggle, and that others have gone through similar things and made it out stronger.

iBAND Magazine – What role do your peers play in your growth as an artist?
Theophilus – My friends are really important to me. I talk to them often, and they are always there with advice and encouragement. They would say, “Why not try it this way?” or “Don’t give up, take a break and come back to it.” Their presence helps me stay balanced.

iBAND Magazine – Do you follow any personal habits to avoid burnout?
Theophilus – Yes, I try to be intentional. For instance, when working and I notice I am pushing too hard, I stop. I take a break. I don’t force it. That pause helps me regain my energy and approach the work with fresh eyes.

iBAND Magazine – That’s a healthy approach. Do these experiences influence the kind of art you create?
Theophilus – Definitely. My work is not just about colour and technique, it’s about process, emotion, and the conversations I am having with myself and others. Every piece reflects a journey, and those journeys are shaped by the people around me and the wisdom they share.

iBAND Magazine – What are you currently working on in your studio?
iBAND Magazine – Right now, I am working on a variety of new pieces. I am really trying to explore more and push myself creatively. It’s a season of experimentation and growth for me.

iBAND Magazine – Should we be expecting any exhibitions from you soon?
Theophilus – Yes, definitely. There’s the possibility of a solo exhibition, although I can’t confirm the exact details just yet. But it’s something I’m preparing for. Group exhibitions are also on the horizon, I expect to be invited to more of them as the year unfolds.

iBAND Magazine – How do you feel about the direction your career is heading?
Theophilus – I feel good about it. From the beginning of this year, there has been visible progress. My art is evolving, and my name is beginning to gain more recognition. I believe it’s only a matter of time before more people start hearing about what I do.

iBAND Magazine – It sounds like a transformative period for you. What can your audience look forward to?
Theophilus – Growth, experimentation, and more meaningful work. I am focused on creating art that speaks to people, and the best is still to come.

iBAND Magazine – How has technology influenced your journey as an artist?
Theophilus – Technology has really helped me a lot. In the past, artists had to physically take their work to galleries or meet collectors in person and it was not easy. But now, things have changed. With just a post on Instagram or other platforms, your work can reach people around the world.

iBAND Magazine – Do you use social media to showcase your work?
Theophilus – Yes, absolutely. I use Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to share my work. These platforms have made it easier for me to connect with collectors, galleries, and even fellow artists both in and outside Nigeria.

iBAND Magazine – Can you share a moment when social media directly impacted your career?
Theophilus – Sure. One of the exhibitions I participated in, an international art festival in Turkey, actually came through Instagram. The organisers saw my work online, reached out to me, and invited me to be part of the festival. That opportunity came simply because I shared my art online.

iBAND Magazine – So would you say technology is essential for young artists today?
Theophilus – Definitely. It’s a powerful tool. It allows your work to travel far beyond your immediate environment and opens doors that would otherwise be hard to reach. For me, it has played a major role in pushing my art and career forward.

iBAND Magazine – Where did your journey in art begin?
Theophilus – I started from my hometown, my village called Ada. From there, I moved to Ibadan to learn more about art before I eventually got into school.

iBAND Magazine – And how did your path evolve after Ibadan?
Theophilus – After my time in Ibadan, I moved to Lagos where I did my industrial training (IT). That period exposed me to more practical experience and networks. From there, things really started growing. I thank God I have even had the opportunity to travel to Turkey for an international exhibition.

iBAND Magazine – It sounds like movement and relocation have played a big role in your growth.
Theophilus – Moving around has helped me a lot. I have stayed in different places and with different people—Igbo, Yoruba, Hausa, and each community taught me something new. I didn’t want to stay stuck in one place. I wanted to explore how people from different backgrounds live and express themselves. That curiosity shaped my artistic journey.

iBAND Magazine – How do you prepare yourself mentally before creating a new piece?
Theophilus – The first thing I do is pray. Then I usually go on YouTube to watch art talks, it helps me get in the right mindset. I also read a lot of books, especially on art and artists that inspire me.

iBAND Magazine – Who are some of the artists that have influenced your work?
Theophilus – I really admire Rembrandt. I study his works and read any book I can find about him.

iBAND Magazine – So your creative process is deeply rooted in study, spirituality, and experience?
Theophilus – Exactly. It’s a mix of everything, faith, exposure to different cultures, conversations, books, and observing the masters. That blend shapes the voice in my art.

iBAND Magazine – Are you a full-time artist?
Theophilus – Yes, I am a full-time studio artist. This is what I do every day, simply creating, researching, and evolving my work.

iBAND Magazine – Why did you choose Ibadan as your studio base instead of a bigger city like Lagos?
Theophilus – Lagos is great, but it’s crowded. I chose Ibadan because it’s more affordable and gives me room to focus. Even though I am based in Ibadan, I am very close to Lagos. I go there about two to four times a week for meetings, exhibitions, or to connect with galleries.

iBAND Magazine – Does being based in Ibadan affect your exposure as an artist?
Theophilus – Not at all. The internet has made the world smaller. People can discover your work from anywhere now, on social media, websites, and online galleries. Unless you need to physically visit a gallery, you can work from anywhere, and Ibadan gives me the peace I need to create freely.

Interview/Ireho Aito/Don’t Keep Your Art in the Finger!/Photographs/Images/Theophilus Adewuyi gallery