About – ArtNativ

ABOUT US

ArtNativ is building the digital rails that connect underrepresented traditional artists to global visibility, trust, and opportunity—starting with Africa.

We’re not just a marketplace—we’re a creative economy enabler. ArtNativ is where culturally rich, handcrafted art meets smart technology, making global commerce, connection, and collaboration possible for artists who have long been left out of the digital conversation.

Powered by AI-enhanced personalization and safe communication tools, and designed with future-proof systems in mind, ArtNativ is building digital infrastructure to help traditional artists participate in the global art economy—not as tokens of charity or novelty, but as creators of cultural capital.

Our Mission

To empower traditional artists from underserved regions—starting with Africa—by providing the digital infrastructure that supports discovery, trust, and commerce on a global scale.

Our Vision

To become the world’s leading cultural infrastructure platform—digitally onboarding the next billion artists into the global creative economy using smart technology, community, and integrity.

OUR STORY

ArtNativ was founded by Damilare Akinloye, a third-generation artist from Ibadan, Nigeria, whose earliest memories are painted in pigment and sweat.

From melting wax for batik prints to selling framed paintings door-to-door with his father, Damilare grew up inside the creative process—but also saw its limitations. Brilliant work, crafted with soul, rarely found its way into the global spotlight. The challenge wasn’t talent. It was infrastructure.

After pursuing engineering and launching a career in tech, Damilare merged his personal and professional worlds to launch ArtNativ: “This platform is my response to a broken system. I’m not just connecting artists to buyers— I’m building digital infrastructure for cultural equity. So artists from underrepresented regions can be seen, trusted, and celebrated—on their own terms.”

WHY ARTNATIV

We are creating the future of cross-cultural art exchange—where creativity, commerce, and dignity meet.

HOW IT WORKS

1. Discover Art

Browse ready-made works or explore artists by country, medium, or style.

2. Commission Creatively

Send custom requests directly to artists—get what you imagine, made just for you.

3. Pay Securely

Escrow-backed payments ensure fairness and trust for both parties.

4. Receive Globally

Art is professionally handled, packaged, and shipped anywhere in the world.

Meet the Artists

ArtNativ is home to bold creatives whose work carries the pulse of their communities and the soul of their heritage.