Tosin Iwayemi
Hailing from the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria, Tosin Iwayemi is a dynamic artist currently based in the United Kingdom, carving a niche for himself as a digital artist and cinematographer. With a passion for storytelling through both moving and static visuals, Tosin's work is a captivating exploration of the history, traditions, cultures, beliefs, and values of Africa.
Tosin's artistic journey began against the backdrop of Nigeria's diverse cultural tapestry, where he developed a keen eye for capturing the essence of his surroundings. After honing his skills in cinematography, he embarked on a creative odyssey that would take him across continents, settling in the United Kingdom while staying deeply connected to his African roots. He embarked on a mission to breathe life into the tales of Africa's past, infusing them with a contemporary twist using digital mediums. His digital canvases come alive with a vibrant array of colors, intricate details, and symbolic elements that pay homage to the continent's diverse traditions.
As a cinematographer, Tosin has a unique ability to translate narratives into visual poetry. His lens captures the nuances of African history, offering viewers a cinematic journey through time. From the majestic landscapes to intimate portrayals of cultural ceremonies, Tosin's cinematography serves as a visual documentation of Africa's multifaceted heritage.
In tandem with his work as a cinematographer, Tosin seamlessly integrates digital art into his portfolio. His creations are a harmonious blend of traditional aesthetics and contemporary techniques, reflecting the intricate layers of Africa's past and present.
Each piece is a meticulously crafted visual narrative that pays homage to the continent's diverse cultures, beliefs, and values.
Having made a home in the United Kingdom, Tosin serves as a cultural bridge, bringing African stories to global audiences. His art transcends geographical boundaries, inviting viewers to embark on a journey of discovery and connection with the vibrant narratives he presents.
Tosin Iwayemi’s artistic vision is a testament to the transformative power of storytelling. Through his lens and digital canvases, he invites audiences to join him on a captivating exploration of Africa's history, traditions, cultures, beliefs, and values, transcending borders and fostering a deeper appreciation for the continent's rich tapestry.
Art Works
Samburu
It represents 18th century Samburu Tribes of Kenya. This artwork explores the 18th century fashion life of this tribute as they were without clothes but explore the use of beads as a means of fashion. Today modern Samburu tribe is one of the tribes in the world whose fashion style and traditional value came to an existence through the use of beads. These beads are being used to make local hat, blouse for women and necklaces for everyone in the tribe.
Goddess
This art represents a typical beautiful traditional Africa woman who is greatly admired especially for her beauty and wanted by many men. It clearly depicts historical culturally dressed Yoruba women from Nigeria, Western Africa
Face of the gods
This artwork is inspired by one of the cultural and historical artefacts which was carved from one of the ancient gods who founded the Benin/Yoruba kingdom in Nigeria. Currently many traditional and cultural representatives of Yoruba culture use a replica of the mask on masquerades for cultural identity to represent the ancient god of their land. Inspired by movie scenes, art documentary, photography.
Kanuri
Facial scarification was a popular mean of cultural identification, beauty and fashion in Africa, most especially in Nigeria, West Africa many years ago until federal law banned child mutilation in 2003. This piece of art represents a typical Kanuri Tribe. This tribe facial mutilation is exceptional and iconic. To the Kanuri, it represents strengths.
Spirit realm
The first six realms in Samsara represent the endless cycle of life, death, and rebirth. They go from the lowest realm of hell to the highest realm of god. It's like a journey that sentient beings go through, experiencing different states of existence.
The spirit realm represents a realm beyond the physical world, where spirits and non-material beings reside. It is often seen as a place where the souls of the deceased go after death. In many belief systems, the spirit realm is associated with a higher plane of existence, where spiritual beings can continue their journey and experience a different form of existence.
Arecaceae
The coconut palm represents so much more than just a tree. It's like a symbol of resourcefulness and sustainability. The leaves are woven into baskets and mats, while the wood is used for building bridges and huts. The fiber from the husk is transformed into ropes, mats, doormats, brooms, and sacks. And even the coconut shells have a practical use as bowls. It's amazing how this one tree provides so many useful materials.
