Niyi Olagunju

Niyi Olagunju, born Adeniyi Olagunju, is a distinguished Nigerian artist with an impressive educational background, including a National Diploma in General Art from Yaba College of Technology in Lagos, and a Bachelor of Fine Arts with Honors from St. Anne’s College, University of Oxford, UK, focusing on Art History, Studio Art, and Visual Theory. His academic journey continued in the United States at Texas Christian University (TCU) in Fort Worth, Texas, where he earned a Master of Fine Arts specializing in Sculpture.

Before his academic pursuits in the arts, Olagunju served in the British Army from 2002-2006, with postings in Basra, Iraq, and Northern Ireland, showcasing his diverse experiences and disciplines. Transitioning from military service to the arts, Olagunju has exhibited his work across three continents, contributing significantly to the global art community.

From 2011 to 2015, Olagunju was appointed as a Special Assistant to the Honourable Minister of State, FCT, Nigeria, where he played a crucial role in developing social development initiatives aimed at enhancing the FCT’s Arts & Culture sector. His work has been featured in prestigious exhibitions such as the 1:54 Contemporary Art Fair in New York and London, highlighting his prominence in the contemporary art scene.

Olagunju's accolades include the Outstanding Student Achievement in Contemporary Sculpture Award from the International Sculpture Center in New Jersey and recognition for his achievements in photography by the International Society Photographer. His commitment to the arts is further evidenced by his affiliations with the Nigeria Leadership Initiative, the Society of Nigerian Artists, and the Royal Engineer Association, marking him as a vital figure in both the Nigerian and international art landscapes.

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