Nigerian visual artist and book cover illustrator, Olusegun Tosin Kalejaye, says his work transcends mere social commentary: ‘Rooted in storytelling, representation, identity, and historical documentation, my work as an artist aims to evoke a profound emotional response in my audience, serving as a catalyst for change.’
First Draft is our interview column, featuring authors and other prominent figures on books, reading, and writing.
Our questions are italicized.
What books or kinds of books did you read growing up?
I grew up reading a variety of novels, religious texts, and self-development books. Growing up in a Christian home, my mother was a schoolteacher, while my father was an artisan and businessman. Alongside a number of school textbooks from my mum, I was exposed to novels such as The Drummer Boy by Cyprian Ekwensi, Eze Goes to School by Michael Crowder and Onuora Nzekwu, Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe, and Animal Farm by George Orwell. Through my dad, I was also exposed to some self-development books like Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill and The Power of Positive Thinking by Norman Vincent Paele. As the years went by, I got my first book by Donald Trump and Bill Zanker—Think Big and Kick Ass: In Business and In Life.
If your life at this moment was the chapter of a book, which book (fiction or non-fiction) would that be?
The fourth chapter, ‘Never Give Up’, in Think Big and Kick Ass by Donald Trump and Bill Zanker. Trump emphasizes that resilience, determination, and the refusal to quit are crucial traits for anyone who wants to achieve big goals. He argues that most people give up too easily and that the key to success is to keep pushing forward, no matter how tough the circumstance may seem. The idea is that by never giving up, you can overcome obstacles and eventually achieve your objectives.
What’s the last thing you read and disagreed with?
I disagree with a number of takes from motivational speakers on X. One of such is the saying, ‘What is meant for you will definitely come for you.’
I have always been that kid who was passionate about art. I drew objects and portraits on every available surface from childhood.
What’s the last thing you read that changed your mind about something?
The second chapter, ‘Think Process, Not Product’, in the book Show Your Work! by Austin Kleon. In this chapter, Kleon emphasizes the importance of focusing on the process rather than the final product. He encourages creators to share their work as it develops, rather than waiting until it is fully polished or perfect. By doing so, you can engage with your audience, receive feedback, and grow your work in an organic way. This approach counters the perfectionist mindset, advocating for openness and continuous improvement through the act of sharing.
You’re a visual and book cover artist and illustrator. What inspired you to pursue a career in arts?
I have always been that kid who was passionate about art. I drew objects and portraits on every available surface from childhood. I am also from a family of creatives. Aside from being a businessman, my dad was also a creative who designed his business logos and engaged in woodwork. Two of my five siblings are also artists. However, because I have a background in history, I am passionate about using my art as a tool for documenting, promoting and preserving culture, history and identity, whilst also utilizing my art as a means of expression to stimulate social consciousness. If our culture and history are not properly documented, they will go into extinction in no time, with nothing for the future generations to learn from.
Which is your favourite out of your artworks? And why?
Sold Conscience. It is one of my earlier works as a traditional photorealism artist, serving as a potent statement of social and political activism. The piece addresses the pervasive issue of vote-buying during election periods in Nigeria. It aims to raise awareness and provoke reflection, urging the populace to vote according to their conscience and choose leaders who are truly fit to govern for the nation’s betterment, rather than succumbing to the lure of immediate, petty financial gains—a choice that inevitably leads to regret and poor governance.
And what’s your favourite book cover that you’ve designed?
Blessings by Chukwuebuka Ibeh (Penguin Random House version).
To what extent, if at all, is your art political?
I use my art as a powerful instrument to articulate my perspectives on contemporary society and the lived experiences of Black individuals. Rooted in storytelling, representation, identity, and historical documentation, my work aims to evoke a profound emotional response in my audience, serving as a catalyst for change. My work as an artist also transcends mere social commentary, inspiring transformative action and awakening a liberated consciousness.
I am passionate about using my art as a tool for documenting, promoting and preserving culture, history and identity, whilst also utilizing my art as a means of expression to stimulate social consciousness.
And what’s one thing you would change about the African art industry?
The African art industry is still growing. I believe has a lot of prospects for the future. I am particularly interested in the creation of more platforms that offer greater inclusivity for artists. We have a lot of talents here in Africa.
What was the first book cover you illustrated? And how was the experience?
Blessings by Chukwuebuka Ibeh for Penguin Random House (New York, United States). The experience was quite smooth. I was able to relate to the book through my work. Although this was my first book cover artwork, I have a done several illustrations for fashion brands.
Which author would you like to illustrate/design a cover for one day?
I would love to work on the cover of a book by Desmond Morris.
What’s a book cover you wish you had designed?
That would be Postures: Body Language in Art by Desmond Moris (Thames and Hudson version).
What’s the best book cover you’ve ever seen?
Even though it is my work, I love the cover of Blessings by Chukwuebuka Ibeh (Penguin Random House version).
Who are the Nigerian artists you’re most excited about today (and why?)
One is Ife Kalejaiye. He is a brilliant and experimental artist. I love the current direction of his work that focuses on representation through ambiguity. Barry Yusufu is another artist I am excited about. He uses his works to amplify Black people beyond the colour of their skin
What is the most meaningful piece of career advice you’ve ever received?
Keep working on yourself, keep improving on yourself and keep putting yourself out there. People are watching and the opportunities will come.
What’s the best book you’ve read so far this year?
Blessings by Chukwuebuka Ibeh.
What is your favourite topic to read about these days?
These days, I am interested in reading about contemporary African art.
The African art industry is still growing. I believe has a lot of prospects for the future. I am particularly interested in the creation of more platforms that offer greater inclusivity for artists.
What are you currently working on?
I am currently exploring wood and recycled materials as a medium in creating my works.
Question from Chimezie Chika: What do you want your work to represent in the world?
I want my work to be a catalyst for social awareness.
Bonus: Please suggest a question for a future author’s First Draft
What is success to you in your career?
Who do you think we should interview next?
Barry Yusufu⎈
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