Sceptre

Oluwapelumi Richard Ilesanmi (b. 1999, Lagos, Nigeria) is a self-taught visual artist whose practice is rooted in charcoal drawing. His works explore themes of memory, identity, and the human condition, often rendered with a striking hyperrealism that emphasizes both vulnerability and resilience. By working in monochrome, he creates powerful contrasts of light and shadow that capture not only physical likeness but also the unspoken emotions and layered narratives of his subjects.…

In 2023, Ilesanmi gained recognition after winning the inaugural 10 Days Art Challenge hosted by the Art Lectures Community. Following this achievement, he served as the community’s Head of Marketing, where he contributed to fostering artistic engagement and visibility among emerging artists. His commitment to both personal practice and community building reflects his belief in art as a tool for dialogue and connection.

Ilesanmi has participated in group exhibitions such as Art Impact – An Artist Connect and the opening of Gallant by House of George in Abeokuta. With each piece, he continues to push the expressive possibilities of charcoal, offering viewers an intimate and reflective experience that resonates beyond the surface.

Artist statement: My artworks explore themes of self-reflection and memory, archived through hyperrealistic representations in charcoal. Each piece invites viewers to engage with their own experiences and emotions, creating a dialogue between the artwork and the observer.