Olawale Kolawole, also known as Wela, is a visual artist.
He describes himself as an upcoming artist born studying Electrical Engineering at the University of Ibadan.
Speaking on how he started, he says, “I started taking drawing seriously in 2016. Art is my escape from the real world. I use graphite, charcoal and coloured pencils.”
“Well, it all started in a WAEC preparation class, the teacher was not so fun so I saw a zebra picture and decided to try it out with a pen. Since then, I just knew I had it in me. I decided to watch lots of tutorials online and reach out to those who would help me improve and along the line, I began to improve in the ability.”
“I’ve really improved compared with when I started but there’s still so much work to do, I feel like I’m not still as good as I want to be. And it’s not so easy to stand strong in the art industry.”
“I’m still on the quest to find who I truly am and connect with that, so I haven’t really figured out how to portray a message, but I would in due time and when I do, I’m hoping to voice out against some vices in the society, mainly sexual abuse.”
Considering his source of inspiration, he says, “It’s more of a who. Kelvin Okafor is a big inspiration to me and many other upcoming and established artists. The heavenly feeling from his drawings is enough inspiration for anybody.”
Connect with him via
WhatsApp: 08104879892
Instagram: @me_wela
Wale