Iyanuoluwa Babalola | Artist at Mondoir

Nationality: Nigerian

Discipline: painting

Based in: Lagos, NG

Biography

Iyanuoluwa Babalola is a Nigerian Painting Therapeutic Artist and Visual Artist whose practice explores healing, identity, moral teachings, storytelling, historical memory, and childhood experiences. Inspired by Yoruba heritage, he creates expressive visual narratives that bridge tradition and contemporary life. His work incorporates symbolic elements such as fruits and Abàjà tribal marks to preserve cultural memory while fostering reflection, emotional restoration, and self-discovery.

Artist Statement

My art explores healing, identity, cultural memory, and moral consciousness through expressive painting and visual storytelling. Drawing from childhood experiences, Yoruba heritage, and personal narratives, I create works that invite reflection, emotional connection, and transformation. Through symbolism, texture, and layered compositions, I preserve stories, honor cultural histories, and create spaces for self-discovery, restoration, and meaningful dialogue.

Exhibitions

ExhibitMOSHO 2026, Ogbomoso, Nigeria Visionary Voice 3.0, Lagos, Nigeria (2025) LIMCAF National Finals Exhibition, Top 100 Finalist (2025) LIMCAF Regional Exhibition, Can We Breathe? (2025) Adeyemi Federal University Finalist Art Students Exhibition (2024) LIMCAF Regional Exhibition, Fix It 2023

Awards

LIMCAF 2025 Grand Finale Exhibition Catalogue LIMCAF 2025 Top 100 Artists Competition Step Up Nigeria 2026 Top 50 Artists for Whistleblower Competition ArtReward Gallery Artibaa Gallery Saatchi Platform

Education

Emmanuel Alayande College of Education, Oyo State Fine and Applied Arts (Creative Arts focus) Adeyemi Federal University of Education, Ondo State Fine and Applied Arts (specialization in Visual Arts) Early artistic apprenticeship under family guidance (initiated during teenage years after talent recognition by father) Continuous studio-based practice in painting and visual storytelling Lighthouse Bootcamp (2025) – Intensive creative development program focused on artistic growth, discipline, and innovation in contemporary practice Participation in art-focused creative sessions and exhibitions (community and studio-based experiences) Facilitation and involvement in Sip & Paint events (35–50 participants), including guided instruction and creative facilitation Mentored informally through early artistic guidance from family influence Ongoing self-development through practice-led learning in therapeutic and expressive painting Engagement with contemporary visual art practices centered on cultural identity and emotional storytelling