Ifeoluwa Alade: Introspective Narratives in Woven Form Ifeoluwa Alade creates introspective paintings that explore human emotions and relationships through a distinctive woven technique. Born in Nigeria in 1995, Alade earned his Fine and Applied Arts degree from Obafemi Awolowo University, where he studied under mentor Jonathan Imafidor, who significantly influenced his artistic development. Working primarily in oil, acrylic, and watercolor, Alade's style evolved from the African "Araism" movement to his current approach, which portrays figures as compositions of interwoven elements symbolizing the complex amalgamation of experiences, thoughts, and emotions that form human identity. His work examines interpersonal connections, often using symbolism like butterflies and flowers to represent relationships as valuable forms of human existence. Represented by Abend Gallery, Alade has exhibited in solo presentations and prestigious art fairs including the LA Art Show and Scope Art Show in Miami, where the gallery has championed his work internationally. To explore his creative process and deeper insights into his work, read our full interview with the artist: Read Interview Curriculum Vitae Date of Birth: 16/11/1995 Nationality: Nigerian Education: Obafemi Awolowo University Ile-Ife – B.Sc. Fine and Applied Arts (2014–2018) Olivet Baptist Secondary High School, Oyo (2006–2012) Baptist Primary School, Isokun, Oyo (2000–2006) Work Experience: 2020–Present: Full-time Studio Artist 2020: Fine Art Teacher, Divine International College, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State 2019: Project Designer, Noluwoods Company, Ile-Ife 2019: Head, Space Committee, SO FAR Exhibition, Ile-Ife 2019: Member, Unicorn Art Studios, Ile-Ife Branch, Osun State 2019: Intern, Artman Paint Factory, Ile-Ife 2018: Intern, Jonathan Imafidor Studios, Ile-Ife 2014: Intern, Sharp Sharp Art Gallery, Owode Oyo Exhibitions and Competitions: 2025: The Sprout of Hope, Solo Exhibition, Abend Gallery, Denver, CO 2024: Contemporary Figuration, Group Exhibition, Abend Gallery, Denver, CO 2023: ANIMALIA, Group Exhibition, Abend Gallery, Denver, CO 2023: LA Art Show, Los Angeles 2022: 32nd Annual Mini Show, Group Exhibition, Abend Gallery, Denver, CO 2022: Melange, Group Exhibition, Abend Gallery, Denver, CO 2022: Wings and Petal, Solo Exhibition, Abend Gallery, Denver, CO 2022: LA Art Show, Los Angeles 2021: Scope Art Show, Miami Beach 2021: LA Art Show, Los Angeles 2020: Debut Solo Exhibition, Abend Gallery, Denver, CO 2019: Diversiform2, Group Exhibition, Arthub, Lagos 2019: So Far I'marturia Exhibition, Group Exhibition, Obafemi Awolowo University, Nigeria 2018: Faces and Phases, Group Exhibition, Terra Kulture, Lagos 2018: Ifectivity 18, Group Exhibition, Institute of Cultural Studies, OAU, Nigeria 2017: Life in My City Art Festival, Alliance Française 2017: Ifectivity 17, Group Exhibition, OAU, Nigeria 2016: Go Poethic, Group Exhibition, Cooperative Hall, OAU, Nigeria Awards: 2019: Best Draughtsman of the Year, 2018/19 Session, Obafemi Awolowo University 2018: Best Draughtsman of the Year, 2017/18 Session, Obafemi Awolowo University 2018: Best Art Student (Academic), Class of 2014/2015, Obafemi Awolowo University 2017: Best Art Student (Academic), Class of 2014/2015, Obafemi Awolowo University Publications and Media: Bold Journey Art Squat African Arts with Taj