Yinka Ilori

Yinka Ilori is a British artist and designer celebrated for his vibrant use of colors and whimsical designs. His portfolio spans architecture, interior design, graphic design, textiles, sculpture, and furniture.

Biography of Yinka Ilori

Yinka Ilori was born in 1987 in London, UK. He studied at St Jude and St Paul's Church of England Primary School. His visits to Nigeria as a child were pivotal in deepening his connection to his family's cultural heritage.

Ilori pursued art and design at London Metropolitan University, specializing in furniture and product design, where he studied from 2006 to 2009. His time there laid the foundation for his future explorations.

After earning his degree, Ilori gained valuable experience as an intern under furniture designer Lee Broom. His debut solo project received a £3,500 grant from The Prince's Trust, marking the start of his professional journey in 2011. Initially focusing on upcycling second-hand furniture, he drew inspiration from the vibrant colors and intricate designs found in West African textiles.

In 2015, the artist established his design studio, which includes architects and designers with a shared passion for vibrant color. As his team has grown, Ilori has expanded into larger-scale architectural and interior design projects. That same year, Ilori was featured in a prominent touring exhibition that showcased contemporary African design, titled "Making Africa."

In 2020, Ilori launched his own homeware brand, which manufactures and distributes his products. That same year, he was awarded the Emerging Design Medal by the London Design Festival.

In 2023, The Design Museum in London hosted a solo exhibition by the artist, showcasing over 100 objects including artworks, photographs, and furniture.

Currently, Ilori lives and works in London, UK.

Yinka Ilori's Art Style

Yinka Ilori is a versatile artist and designer whose vibrant visual style is influenced by his British-Nigerian heritage. He uses contemporary design to create fresh narratives, drawing inspiration from Nigerian parables and oral traditions. His work explores a diverse range of themes that resonate widely with audiences around the world.

His creative philosophy centers on making art and design accessible to everyone. Known for their humorous, provocative, and playful nature, his projects illustrate how design can unite communities and contribute positively to society, fostering feelings of joy and optimism.

Frequently utilizing urban settings as his medium, he transforms spaces to promote community spirit and actively involves audiences in interacting with his artwork and its environment.