The British Nigerian artist, or rather self-proclaimed scam artist, Olaolu Slawn is hard to pin-down to just one practice. If anything, Slawn is the full package, with his other titles including: skater, designer, father, Mowalola model – of which his son is also accredited with – and now coffee shop owner. Quickly becoming one of the most prominent figures to come out of London’s current art scene.

He is recognised for intersecting street art with Abstract Expressionist styles. His work, rooted in both Yoruba heritage and contemporary societal themes, engages a wide-ranging audience, including ASAP Rocky, Tremaine Emory and Skepta. Addressing complex issues such as politics, race, and identity, Slawn’s artistic practice began in Lagos at Nigeria’s pioneering skate shop Wafflesncream. This experience led to his co-founding of the apparel group Motherlan. Slawn’s transition to painting occurred during the London lockdown in 2020. His first exhibition, at Truman Brewery in 2021, revealed his approach of combining playful visuals with societal analysis. In 2022, he had his auction debut at Sotheby’s “Contemporary Curated” sale. Slawn also designed the statuette and set for the 2023 Brit Awards, becoming the youngest and first Nigerian-born artist to do so, followed by being selected to design the 2024 FA Cup Trophy.