Paul Ayihawu (b. 1995) is a Nigerian artist based in Lagos whose paintings explore Black identity, cultural memory and spirituality. Working with charcoal, acrylic, oil and mixed media, he uses portraiture to reconsider how African lives and histories are represented. In 2022, he was awarded a Visiting Fellowship at the Noldor Artist Residency in Accra, a programme affiliated with the Institute Museum of Ghana. Artist biography

His work has been presented by TAAG Gallery in New York, including in the exhibition The Identity in 2021, and by Constance and Sons Gallery in Nigeria. His paintings are held in the Africa First Collection and the private collection of architect Sir David Adjaye. TAAG Gallery, Collections

Ayihawu’s portraits ask how Africa and its people might have developed without colonial domination. His figures often combine elements of African and Western dress, bringing different cultural references into a single image. Reversed poses and unexpected combinations of clothing encourage viewers to reconsider familiar visual conventions. Through these choices, he explores the relationship between inherited traditions and contemporary identity, while addressing intimate experiences such as companionship, loneliness and the search for a sense of belonging. About the portraits

His Christian faith also informs his practice, introducing themes of spiritual renewal and restoration. Ayihawu approaches his subjects as people whose inner lives deserve as much attention as their outward appearance. This interest in both physical and spiritual presence connects his exploration of cultural identity with a more personal search for meaning. Throughout his work, he seeks to bring overlooked Black experiences into view, giving space to stories that have too often remained unheard. Artist statement