Today we’d like to introduce you to Lola Okunola.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My art journey started in the most unexpected way. After I had surgery a few years ago, I was home recovering when I started to feel this intense craving to draw. It came out of nowhere. I couldn’t shake it. So as soon as I felt strong enough, I went to the art store, picked up some supplies, and came straight home to get started.
I remember sitting down and just letting it all pour out onto the canvas. There was no plan or expectation. It just felt necessary. When I finally shared what I’d made with close friends and family, they were honestly confused. A lot of them didn’t believe I had created the pieces myself because I had never made art before. A few even joked, asking what kind of procedure I’d had. “Was it brain surgery?”
I kept going anyway. I created an Instagram page to share my work, and almost immediately, I started getting messages from people wanting to buy pieces or collaborate. It was surreal.
Then the pandemic hit, and the world slowed down. Suddenly, I had even more time and space to create. Those early days of experimenting turned into something much bigger than I ever imagined.
It’s been six years now. I’ve been in exhibits all over the world, sold over 80 pieces, and even had my art featured on a prime time TV show. So many doors have opened that I never could have planned for. Looking back, I’m just grateful I listened to that urge to pick up a paintbrush and see where it would lead me.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
For the most part, my journey has been very pleasant. People have really embraced my art and brought so many opportunities my way. I’ve learned a lot from so many different people and have been given chances to be in spaces I never imagined I’d find myself in
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m known for creating mixed media pieces that blend paper, fabric, and paint. My work is often colorful and layered, with a lot of texture and movement. People tell me they can feel the emotion and energy in each piece, which is something I’m really proud of.
What sets me apart is how I weave elements of my heritage and personal story into my art. I love using unexpected materials and letting the process guide me instead of overthinking every detail. There’s something freeing about trusting my instincts and seeing where the work wants to go.
Some of the things I’m most proud of are the opportunities I’ve had to share my art in exhibitions around the world, selling over 80 pieces, and even having my work featured on a prime time TV show. But honestly, what means the most to me is hearing how my art resonates with people and helps them feel something real. That connection is why I keep creating.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
Some things that keep me balanced and informed are Kundalini yoga at Joiful Yoga, prayer journaling, listening to “Everything Happens with Kate Bowler” and Oprah’s podcasts, traveling, and reading books about personal development.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.contempoafricano.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/contempoafricano
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19YAVXxisd/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lola-okunola-mba
