Art residencies and awards are appreciated, but what drives Jeyifous’ work is the reaction he receives from its viewers. “My greatest achievement is not a milestone or finite accomplishment, but rather the sustained positive reactions to the kind of artwork that I produce: which is a sort of cannibal architectural futurism derived from sourced images, 3D computer models, sketches, and “borrowed and invented” narratives.” Jeyifous is often told that his artwork, creative process, and “career” trajectory is inspiring to emerging artists, architects, and designers because it deviates from the architecture and art professions traditionally understood and practiced. “It is this kind of consistent support and validation that reaffirms my decision to walk this path, and gives me the confidence to stay on it.”
Committed to his craft, Jeyifous believes that education, whether traditional or non-traditional, is vital to creating opportunities for oneself. “Commitment and dedication are traits that many people will notice and appreciate in your brand,” he says. “For those who choose the non-traditional route, success is often attainable due to the kind of characteristics that are often specific to such intrepid individuals; chief among them being: drive, creativity, resourcefulness, and an ability to define, set, and meet goals and milestones independent of familiar constructs or safeguards.
Huge disparities exist in the space that Jeyifous occupies, and he is well aware of this. He is also conscious, which allows him to focus his artwork on breaking free from conventionality. “My artwork regularly focuses on speculative, sci-fi inspired narratives and inventive re-imaginings of contemporary issues, and projecting them into the future in either optimistic (Utopian) or cynical (Dystopian) ways.” If this is done well, or in a visually compelling manner, then the possibility exists to shift the dialogue beyond generic and stereotypical archetypes. “When these narratives get picked up by digital (social), and even traditional media, and spread widely, it can contribute to challenging long-held perceptions,” says Jeyifous.
Undefined and unconventional, Jeyifous is nothing less than unique. “In my estimation a BE Modern Man is a man who actively pursues and commits to a life of personal fulfillment and social responsibility, while also having a positive impact on others.”
The BE Modern Man team congratulates Olalekan Jeyifous for staying true to his creative genius and architectural background, and for providing the world with artwork that is inspired and universally applicable.
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