Meet Abayomi Idowu

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Abayomi Idowu. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Abayomi, we’re so appreciative of you taking the time to share your nuggets of wisdom with our community. One of the topics we think is most important for folks looking to level up their lives is building up their self-confidence and self-esteem. Can you share how you developed your confidence?

As a digital artist, building my confidence and self-esteem has been an ongoing journey. For me, it started by embracing my unique style and trusting that my creative vision has value. Early on, I learned to see constructive criticism as a tool for growth rather than a reflection of my worth. Participating in art communities and sharing my work publicly helped too. Positive feedback, as well as support from mentors and peers, gave me the encouragement to push forward.

Additionally, setting small goals and celebrating each accomplishment boosted my confidence. With every project, I focus on progress rather than perfection, which helps me stay motivated and resilient in the face of challenges. Over time, these experiences have strengthened my self-belief, allowing me to take on new opportunities and express my art with authenticity.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

Hello! I’m Idowu Abayomi, a Nigerian digital artist with a deep passion for storytelling and cultural representation. My journey into art began in childhood when I found joy in making people smile through my drawings. Over the years, this simple pleasure evolved into a meaningful career, as I realized the power of visual storytelling to connect, inspire, and communicate across cultures.

Professionally, my work focuses on creating digital illustrations that celebrate African heritage, especially the rich cultural narratives of the Yoruba tribe. I aim to bring African characters, themes, and stories to life in a way that resonates both locally and internationally. One of my proudest achievements has been collaborating with organizations like NABU Nigeria and the British Council Nigeria to promote mother-tongue literacy for Nigerian children, allowing them to see their identities reflected in art. I’ve also contributed to projects like the *Tibeb Girls* animation, a partnership between Whiz Kids Workshop in Ethiopia and the Akademie Germany, which highlights African female superheroes.

The digital art landscape is constantly evolving, and that’s one of the things I find most exciting about it. I’m particularly interested in exploring how technology can be used to make art more interactive and accessible, especially for young audiences. Recently, I’ve been inspired to develop educational content, digital illustrations, and even interactive media aimed at bridging the technology gap for children, sparking their curiosity through visuals that feel familiar and empowering.

Looking ahead, I’m thrilled to continue expanding my artistic reach. This year, I’m part of the Dak’Art 2024 Off, organized by LIMCAF, which gives me an incredible platform to share my work with a wider African and global audience. For me, art is more than just aesthetics; it’s a tool for preserving culture, educating, and bridging gaps. Through my work, I hope to contribute to a more inclusive and dynamic representation of African identity in the digital space.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Looking back on my journey as a digital artist, three key qualities have been most impactful: **a strong passion for art**, **adaptability and versatility**, and **a commitment to using art for positive change**. These elements not only define my work but also deepen my connection to my art and community. Here’s how these qualities have shaped my journey, along with some advice for those just beginning.

1. **Passion for Art**
Loving what you do is essential—it’s a powerful counter to criticism and obstacles. My passion began in childhood, where I discovered the joy of creating and connecting with people through my drawings. Over time, this passion has grown into a deep, personal relationship with my work. When you truly love what you do, it’s more than a job; it’s part of who you are. For anyone starting out, focus on nurturing that love. It will keep you resilient and connected, making every piece an authentic extension of yourself.

2. **Adaptability and Versatility**
Being adaptable and versatile has kept me engaged and constantly learning in the ever-evolving digital art world. I explore a variety of forms—from book illustration and caricature to digital portraits, character design, graphic design, and even traditional painting. Some have advised me to specialize in one area, but I find joy in breaking boundaries and believe that exploring different styles only enriches my creative voice. For emerging artists, don’t limit yourself if you feel inspired by multiple forms. Each new medium or technique adds depth to your skill set and can expand your opportunities.

3. **Art as a Tool for Positive Change**
My work goes beyond aesthetics. I aim to use art to foster a sense of self-worth and love among children. Through commissioned book illustrations, I’ve had the privilege of illustrating stories that teach children about the beauty of diversity, self-value, and empathy. Books like *Nuri Nuri What Do You See?* by Dr. ReGina A. Etter, *Mother Duck, Won’t You Quack?*, and *Royal Hairress* by Habi Akinteye convey important messages about valuing oneself and loving others, even with our differences. These stories have allowed me to contribute to a positive narrative for young audiences, reinforcing compassion and self-acceptance.

This commitment to positive change extends beyond my art and into my community. I genuinely enjoy spending time with children, and my studio has become a gathering place for over 20 children in my community. I love their curiosity and the joy they bring, and I’m constantly inspired by the energy and innocence they bring into my space. It’s a reminder of why I create—to inspire, to connect, and to foster a sense of belonging.

Together, passion, versatility, and purpose are my guiding principles. For those starting out, embrace your love for art, stay open to new experiences, and think about how your work can make a difference. Art has the power to connect, inspire, and teach, and I believe that a meaningful connection to your craft will resonate deeply with others.

Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?

Yes, I’m actively looking to collaborate with individuals and organizations who share a commitment to art, culture, and education. I’m particularly interested in connecting with:

1. Nonprofits and Educational Organizations
I am eager to work with groups focused on youth education, literacy, and cultural preservation. Collaborating with organizations that inspire children through storytelling or visual art is especially meaningful to me. I’ve worked with NABU Nigeria and the British Council Nigeria on projects promoting mother-tongue literacy, and I’d love to continue work that empowers children and nurtures their identities.

2. Fellow Artists and Creators
I welcome collaboration with other artists—especially those who are passionate about making world a better place for all, those that have a core value for African heritage and cultural narratives. Whether you’re a visual artist, illustrator, animator, or storyteller, I believe we can elevate our work by bringing fresh perspectives together. Through collaboration, we can create powerful cultural stories that resonate deeply with audiences.

3. Tech Innovators
As technology becomes an increasingly vital part of digital art, I’m interested in collaborating with tech innovators who are developing platforms, apps, or interactive media that make art more accessible and engaging, particularly for younger audiences. If you’re working at the intersection of art and technology, let’s explore how we can work together.

4. Authors and Publishers
I am always open to collaborating with authors and publishers who have impactful stories to tell—especially those that celebrate differences and values or provide meaningful lessons for young readers. I enjoy the challenge of bringing characters and narratives to life in ways that foster self-worth and empathy among children.

5. Centers for Art and Culture
Collaboration with art and cultural centers is invaluable for connecting communities with art that represents their heritage and fosters cultural pride. I’m excited to partner with institutions that promote African art and heritage, organize exhibitions, and host educational programs. Working with these centers can help us collectively preserve and celebrate cultural values through artistic expression.

For anyone interested in collaborating, please feel free to connect with me through my social media platforms. I look forward to working with those who are passionate about using art as a tool for meaningful impact and positive change.

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Image Credits

The Artist

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