For Nigerian-born painter Braimah Tayo Lawal, every canvas is a story of place, memory and humanity. In conversation with DEEDS, he reflects on his journey from Lagos to Accra to Chicago, the themes that shape his work and the lessons learned along the way.
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• Can you introduce yourself and tell us a little about who you are as an artist?
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My name is Braimah Tayo Lawal, I am a painter, storyteller & visionary currently based in Chicago, IL . My work is inspired by my multicultural background of being Nigerian (Yoruba) , my childhood and early teenage years spent in Accra Ghana & my current life in Chicago. I often narrate my oeuvre with the color pallets of both the Nigerian and the Ghanaian flag. My ability to absorb my surroundings allows me to take this global perspective and express it in a way that not only represents me but the very essence of what it means to be a human being .
• What themes or messages do you explore through your work?
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My work explores themes of family, the longing and the complexity of Africans living in the diaspora. I’m drawn to stories of my own love life, dreams and manifestations
• Why is it important for you to create art with meaning or impact?
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It is very important for me to create art with meaning or impact, it’s the only way I can. It allows deep self- reflection & vulnerability. Vulnerability makes you powerful, it brings healing, improves your mental health significantly, and connects us to others. When art is honest ,it can inspire real change in the world.
• Can you share a moment or experience that shaped you as an artist?
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A moment that shaped me as an artist was my first group exhibition in Manhattan, NYC. I had high hopes it would be my big break as an artist, but I only sold one painting. I was disappointed at first , but I later found out my painting “ The Last Amir” was donated to the University of Pennsylvania Wharton Business School. That experience taught me to always stay present,trust the journey and always practice gratitude daily. Success on this journey doesn’t always show up how you expect it & knowing that has brought me peace as an artist.
• What themes or messages do you explore through your work?
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My work explores themes of family, the longing for home and the complexity of Africans living in the diaspora. I’m drawn to stories of my own love life, dreams and manifestations
