b. 1990, Ajilete, Nigeria Lives and works in Osogbo, Nigeria Gbemileke Adekunle is a Nigerian painter whose emotionally charged works delve into themes of solitude, memory, mental health, and cultural heritage. Born in the southwestern village of Ajilete, he holds both a BA and MFA in Painting from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. Adekunle’s practice is deeply introspective and shaped by personal experiences with anxiety and agoraphobia. Working with acrylic, oil pastel, and charcoal, he creates layered compositions that merge expressionist and abstract techniques. His critically regarded Dementia series and other introspective works present textured, atmospheric portrayals of suburban life as reflections of internal psychological states. Rooted in expressionism and informed by Yoruba culture and childhood memory, Adekunle’s evolving visual language combines spiritual depth with narrative subtlety. His work has been exhibited at international and local platforms including the 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair (Marrakech and London), Art on Paper New York, the Affordable Art Fair Abuja, and virtual solo exhibitions hosted by the National Museum, Lagos. He is represented by The African Art Hub and Yoruba Gallery, and has participated in group exhibitions at TAAG Gallery, Alexis Galleries, and other venues. Adekunle’s art offers a quiet, reflective space—one that does not romanticize pain, but invites viewers into moments of emotional and spiritual contemplation.