About Me
Rahmon Olugunna was born in Osogbo in 1975, a Township in Yorubaland in Nigeria, West Africa. Osogbo is the home of traditional arts and culture in Nigeria. It is known for its natural indigo color and the place where modern contemporary Art began in Nigeris. Rahmon started his career in 1996 under the tutelage of late Rufus Ogundele, a renowned Osogbo Artist. Rahmon’s work represents Yoruban mythology as well as modern Nigerian life using figurative and abstract ideas and vibrant colors. Olugunna paintings have been exhibited throughout the United States and Europe. Rahmon artwork has received many awards including at the Chicago Gold Coast Art Fair in 2019 and Best in Show at the Ann Arbor Michigan Art Festival. Olugunna strives to represent happy and healthy feelings through his paintings.
A Journey of Passion and Purpose in Art
Art is more than just a visual experience; it is a medium through which stories, emotions, and cultural heritage are expressed. For me, Rahmon Olugunna, art is the essence of my being, a passion that flows deeply from my roots in Osogbo, the cultural heartland of Yorubaland, Nigeria. Born in 1975, I have been fortunate to be surrounded by the rich traditions of Yoruba mythology and the vibrant legacy of modern Nigerian art. My journey as an artist began in earnest in 1996 under the guidance of the late Rufus Ogundele, a renowned Osogbo artist whose mentorship shaped my artistic identity. Through my work, I strive to bridge the traditional and the contemporary, embodying the spirit of my culture while engaging with modern life’s complexities.
Passion for Yoruba Heritage and Modern Art
Growing up in Osogbo, a town celebrated for its traditional arts and natural indigo dyes, I was immersed in the stories, symbols, and spirituality of Yoruba culture. The annual Osun-Osogbo Festival, with its vibrant rituals and deep spiritual significance, left a lasting impression on my artistic vision. My passion lies in preserving and sharing the essence of Yoruba mythology, where gods and ancestors play central roles in everyday life. These cultural elements are not relics of the past but living, breathing parts of our identity, and I feel a profound responsibility to represent them through my work.
At the same time, I am deeply inspired by the dynamism of modern Nigerian life. The bustling markets, colorful festivals, and resilient spirit of the people provide endless inspiration. I blend the figurative with the abstract, allowing my art to capture the essence of joy, struggle, and hope. Each piece is a testament to the vibrant energy of Nigeria, brought to life through bold, vibrant colors that evoke happiness and positivity.