Continuing a Creative Legacy | Dr Afuevu Onakufe | CUO S3E3
Published 30 January 2025 in Podcast
Artfundi Editorial
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Dr. Afuevu Onakufe - Oyoma Art Gallery
Key Points and Lessons from the interview with Dr. Afuevu Onakufe on Growing Up in an Artistic Dynasty
Dr. Afuevu Onakufe, the manager of the Oyoma Visual Arts Studio and Gallery, recently shared his insights on growing up in an artistic dynasty and how his family has nurtured a legacy of creativity. The conversation also explored the dynamics of mentorship and the role it played in shaping his career in the arts.
Early Exposure and Immersive Experience:
Dr. Onakufe emphasized that art was an integral part of his life from a very young age. Growing up in a household where both parents were artists, he and his siblings were constantly surrounded by creativity. They witnessed their parents working in the studio, interacting with collectors, and hosting research students. This immersive experience fostered a deep appreciation for art and instilled in them a sense of its value.
Mentorship - A Passive yet Powerful Influence
While his father never explicitly instructed his children to pursue a career in the arts, his mentorship was a constant, underlying presence. Dr. Onakufe highlighted the passive nature of this mentorship, emphasizing that it was the environment and the exposure to the artistic process that shaped their interests.
Freedom of Choice and Individual Expression
A key aspect of his father's mentorship was the freedom of choice he gave his children. While he made the family's artistic legacy accessible to them, he didn't pressure them to follow in his footsteps. This approach allowed each sibling to find their own niche within the arts. Dr. Onakufe chose to manage the family's art gallery and studio, while his brothers pursued careers in hospitality and tourism and fine arts lecturing, respectively. Their sister, initially drawn to drawing and painting, eventually found her passion in fashion design, incorporating elements of their artistic heritage into her work.
The Importance of Role Models
Dr. Onakufe acknowledged the significance of role models in his journey. His father and uncle, both accomplished artists, served as inspirations and guides. Their success stories motivated him to strive for greater heights in the arts.
Nurturing a Data Culture in the Art World
The conversation also touched upon the challenges of introducing data and technology into the art world. Dr. Onakufe recognized the need to bridge the gap between the traditional, tactile nature of art and the digital realm. He emphasized the importance of educating artists and galleries about the value of data and technology in managing their businesses and reaching a wider audience.
Key Takeaways
Early exposure to a creative environment can foster a lifelong appreciation for the arts.
Mentorship can be a powerful influence, even when it's passive and subtle.
Giving individuals the freedom to choose their own path within a creative field encourages exploration and innovation.
Role models play a crucial role in inspiring and guiding individuals towards their goals.
Bridging the gap between the traditional art world and the digital realm requires education and a shift in culture.
Dr. Afuevu Onakufe's experiences offer valuable insights into the dynamics of growing up in an artistic family and the ways in which a creative legacy can be nurtured and passed on. His story underscores the importance of mentorship, freedom of expression, and adaptation to the changing landscape of the art world.