Introduction
Odah Ojomugbo Julius stands as a compelling figure in the contemporary art scene, weaving narratives of African heritage, resilience, and forward-looking perspectives into his diverse body of work. His artistic expression, characterized by vibrant colors and intricate symbolism, offers a unique lens through which to view the human experience. This article delves into the origins of his artistic path, the influences that shape his understanding of the world, and his aspirations for the future of African art.
Artist Bio
Odah Ojomugbo Julius (b. May 1994) is a multidisciplinary artist based in Abuja, Nigeria, and originally from Kogi State. He specializes in painting and is a graduate of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.
Drawing inspiration from nature, culture, and the contemporary world, Julius creates works distinguished by vibrant colour palettes, intricate patterns, and a compelling fusion of traditional aesthetics with futuristic imagination. His paintings often portray everyday life and portraiture, exploring the beauty, complexity, and resilience of people within their environments through an Afrofuturist lens. In recent years, his artistic practice has increasingly embraced futuristic themes, reflecting his evolving vision of identity, culture, and possibility.
Julius has participated in several exhibitions, workshops, and professional development programs. In 2022, he took part in the Life in My City Art Festival at Thought Pyramid, Abuja. In 2023, he participated in the International Arts and Crafts (INAC) Expo, where the team he worked with received the Best NGO Supporting Young Artists award. That same year, he exhibited at Nike Art Gallery, Abuja, in the painting and photography exhibition Greater Nigeria. He also participated in the Art Master Class: Made in Nigeria 3.0, organized by Gan Initiative I in collaboration with the German Cooperation, the Nigeria-German Centre for Migration and Development (GIZ), and the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, held at Nike Art Gallery, Abuja.
In 2025, Julius exhibited in a group exhibition at Tecta Gallery, Abuja, participated in the Abuja Art Fair at the Exhibition Pavilion, ICC Garki, Abuja, and showcased his work at the JOSCF Public Advocacy Art Exhibition held at Rock Event Centre, Kukwaba, Abuja. In 2026, he was selected as a Top 20 finalist for the Next of Kin Series 8: Fragments of Being at Thought Pyramid, Lagos. He also volunteered during the 8th solo exhibition of Dotun Popoola, Reclaimed Beauty, at Tikera Art Village, Idu, Abuja.
The Genesis of an Artist
Odah Ojomugbo Julius's artistic journey began in his early life, a talent he describes as a "God-given talent." This innate ability was meticulously nurtured through his academic background, where formal visual learning ignited his passion for art, particularly focusing on African culture and heritage. His experiences and research have instilled in him a keen attention to detail and a profound sense of empathy, qualities he considers essential for authentically capturing the human experience within his artistic creations.
In the exclusive question and answer segment with Odah Ojomugbo Julius below, we learn about his work ritual and the inspirations behind his captivating art.
Q. As a self-taught artist who transitioned to an academically trained artist, what was the most difficult hurdle you had to overcome to establish yourself?
A. As both a self-taught and academically trained artist, my greatest challenge was overcoming self-doubt and the question of legitimacy. More than anything, the hardest hurdle was maintaining a consistent practice and staying committed to becoming the artist I envisioned myself to be. I overcame this by embracing my unique perspective, committing to continuous learning, and creating work that genuinely resonates with others. Over time, I realized that authenticity, discipline, and persistence matter far more than how your journey begins.
Q. You often incorporate intricate patterns and circular elementsinto your artpieces. What do these recurring symbols represent?
A. The recurring patterns and circular elements in my work are visual symbols that connect African heritage with a vision of the future. The intricate Harism patterns are inspired by the forms of futuristic architecture, particularly skyscrapers, representing growth, innovation, and the evolution of African societies. The circular elements evoke unity, continuity, and our connection to the cosmos, reflecting the idea that humanity is part of a larger universal story. The cyber glasses symbolize vision—not only the ability to see, but to imagine new possibilities, challenge conventional perspectives, and look toward the future with clarity and purpose. Together, these symbols create a visual language that bridges tradition, technology, and limitless potential.
Title: Echos of Tomorrow I
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Q. You work across traditional painting, mixed-media, and large-scale murals. How does your creative process differ when approaching a canvas versus a massive wall?
A. The creative process begins with the same vision, but the execution changes dramatically depending on the scale. A canvas gives me the freedom to focus on intricate details, subtle textures, and quiet moments of expression. A large-scale mural, on the other hand, requires me to think much bigger—considering visibility, composition, and how the work interacts with its environment. I usually start with digital sketches, carefully map out the color palette, and often collaborate with assistants to bring the piece to life. Murals demand boldness, adaptability, and teamwork, while a canvas offers a more intimate, personal dialogue between me and the artwork.
Q. How does the vibrant energy of Lagos, where you've created significant murals, inspire your color palette and subject matter?
A. Lagos is a constant source of inspiration for my work. The city embodies resilience, hope, and an undeniable sense of joy, even amid its fast pace and daily challenges. That energy naturally finds its way into my color palette through bold, vibrant hues like yellows, blues, and reds, which reflect the rhythm and optimism of the city.
My subject matter is equally shaped by Lagos. I draw from everyday life—the people, the streets, and the culture—while celebrating African heritage and imagining futuristic possibilities. Through my murals, I aim to capture not just what Lagos is today, but the vision, creativity, and potential it represents for the future.
Title: Shards of Self III
Q. If you could place one of your murals anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
A. If I could place one of my murals anywhere in the world, it would be in Times Square, New York City. As one of the world's most recognizable iconic location, it attracts millions of people from every culture and background. Displaying my work there would create an opportunity to share African culture, heritage, and futuristic visions on a global stage. I hope it would spark conversations, inspire cross-cultural appreciation, and invite people to imagine the future through the lens of Afrofuturism.
Q. What drives your passion for being an art educator and sharing your process so openly?
A. What drives my passion for being an art educator is the belief that knowledge grows when it is shared. By openly documenting my creative process and experiences, I hope to make the art world feel more accessible, particularly for African creatives who may be navigating similar paths or looking for someone whose journey reflects their own.
The guidance I received from mentors and the generosity of online creative communities played a significant role in my development. Sharing what I've learned is my way of giving back. If my process encourages even one artist to trust their voice, embrace their perspective, or pursue their practice with greater confidence, then that openness has served its purpose. Ultimately, I believe education helps cultivate a more inclusive, connected, and vibrant creative ecosystem where artists can learn from one another and thrive together.
Q. Identity and self-discovery are central themes in your practice. How has your own journey of self-discovery evolved alongside your art?
A. My journey of self-discovery has evolved hand in hand with my artistic practice. Through creating, I've been able to explore my African heritage more deeply, question inherited narratives and biases, and better understand who I am beyond external expectations. Each body of work reflects a different stage of that journey, capturing moments of curiosity, growth, and self-acceptance.
As my confidence in my artistic voice grew, so did my confidence in my identity. Art has given me the freedom to embrace the complexity of my experiences rather than simplify them. Today, my practice is not only about expressing my own story but also about encouraging others to celebrate their own identities, recognize the beauty in their individuality, and find strength in authenticity.
Title: She wears the City
Q. You often paint large-scale portraits of Black individuals. What specific stories or emotions are you trying to convey through these subjects?
A. My large-scale portraits are an invitation to truly see the people I paint. Through each subject, I aim to convey strength and resilience, while also celebrating joy, hope, and the richness of African pride and heritage. I'm interested in revealing an inner light and beauty that history has too often overlooked or misrepresented.
Beyond representation, I want these portraits to evoke universal emotions that connect us all, regardless of race or background. By giving my subjects a monumental presence, I hope viewers are encouraged to reflect on our shared humanity and the invisible threads that connect the past, present, and future.
Q. How do you hope your art impacts the way young Africans view their own culture and identity?
A. I hope my art encourages young Africans to see their culture as a source of strength, innovation, and possibility. I want them to embrace their heritage with pride, explore their unique identities without fear, and recognize that African stories deserve to be told on a global stage. If my work inspires even one young person to challenge stereotypes, think creatively, and Envision limitless futures rooted in African culture while shaping the world around them, then I believe my art has fulfilled its purpose.
Q. What new mediums, themes, or scales are you eager to explore in the next phase of your career?
A. While I intend to continue working with acrylic on canvas, I’ve been exploring the possibility of incorporating additional materials to expand the scale and depth of my paintings. The central theme for my next body of work is still taking shape, but the ideas are steadily evolving. More than anything, I’m focused on pushing my creative boundaries and producing work that is even more compelling, ambitious, and thought-provoking than what I’m creating today.
Conclusion
Odah Ojomugbo Julius's artistic journey is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and cultural pride. From his early recognition of a God-given talent to his academic pursuits and the challenges he overcame, his work consistently reflects a deep connection to African heritage and a forward-looking vision. Through his intricate patterns, vibrant colors, and compelling portraits, he not only celebrates identity and self-discovery but also inspires young Africans to embrace their roots and envision limitless futures. As he continues to explore new dimensions in his craft, Odah Ojomugbo Julius remains a pivotal voice, enriching the global art landscape with his unique perspective and unwavering commitment to his artistic mission.
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