Artist Bio

Joseph Idowu (Nigerian, b. 1993) is a contemporary artist best known for his impression of signature wood grain textures on canvas and other media.  He works across painting, sculpture, wood burning and etching (Pyrography).

Raised in FCT Abuja and originating from Ekiti state, Nigeria, Idowu pursued a B.A. in in Fine and Applied Art Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, with the honours as Best Graduating Student. He was a resident artist at The Universal Studios of art and the Akpojotor studios, Lagos respectively. He was selected to participate in the Rele Young Contemporaries residency program(virtual) in 2020. He has participated in several group exhibitions and art fairs including ART CONTACT Istanbul International Contemporary Art Fair, Turkey and the first art meets tech fair, Africa; Impart Fair, Eko Atlantic City, Lagos.

He has won some awards including Award for Outstanding Contribution at the International Art Exchange Mural project with Sara Hinds (Artist in Residency, University of Florida) and Numartville Art Competition 2018 to his credit among others. His solo exhibition before the wooden wall, recently held in October 2023 by Abend Gallery Denver, Colorado.

Idowu has also created uniquely figurative works using fire – a technique known as Pyro-painting. He uses colours as the focal point and then creates wood grain textures. Idowu’s works are mostly pensive yet, commands hope and fluidity of time to a degree using symbolisms in the form of colours, melting clocks and other elements of play.

His art challenges common stereotypes of African children, portraying them as elegant. Through his work, Idowu aims to transform the global perception of African youth and evoke deep appreciation for humanity.