Lanré Olagoke MBE in Studio
I am Lanre Olagoke, a London-born artist raised in Nigeria, whose journey has been shaped by adversity, creativity, and the belief in art as a force for transformation. My passion began at age five and has been both a personal salvation and a tool for change.
Overcoming homelessness and addiction, I found refuge in painting, deeply inspired by the iconic Professor Ben Enwonwu. My work is grounded in lived experiences, using vibrant colours and expressive rhythms to channel deep emotions.
Art has not only transformed my life, but allowed me to impact others. Through the Art-Alive Arts Trust and initiatives such as the Soho Arts Fair, I have worked with over 5,000 young people, helping them find voice and purpose through creative expression. This commitment was honoured in May 2024, when I received an MBE from HRH Prince William in recognition of my contributions to youth and charity.
My work has been exhibited internationally, including at the National Gallery alongside masters such as Degas, and collected by notable figures. Yet my deepest fulfilment comes from using art to uplift those facing hardship — whether through community projects or collaborations with organisations such as Centrepoint and Her Majesty's Prison Service.
Creativity to me is a human necessity, and one that transcends intellect and speaks directly to emotion and shared experience. My travels across America, Europe, and Africa have further shaped this perspective, enriching my understanding of people and the stories that connect us. Each piece I create is a tribute to resilience, transformation, and the power of art to heal and unite.
