My name is Taiwo Ajose, I go by "TAIYEWO" meaning to taste/test the world. In many ways, my artistry reflects that notion using my palette to paint the many varieties and flavours within humanity and to reveal sacred knowledge whilst demystifying popular stories with the aim of unity. A principle that is easier said than done. I believe that artists have the power to paint society as we see it or perhaps to create our own utopias; which may invoke, trigger, inspire, uplift, provoke, reshape... the world. Here, it's clearly evident that a universal element/theme plays a big role within my practice; given that the most prevalent ethos in my life denotes that we are all one.

In regards to unity, I often take a more intersectional approach by focusing closely into the Black community. A key motive is to create more representation of my race beyond the main stereotypes. Additionally, I find that there is a bias/lack of studies regarding Black skin tones and features albeit my practice feels duty-like with the knowing that my studies will help others in the future.

Moreover, another core part of my artistry is rather personal - using my medium as a way to depict emotional reflections, the journey of life, my relationship to my higher self and God; and as of lately self-portraiture, as an ever-growing and changing visual timestamp to key moments in my life. Of course, some works are kept light-hearted merely for fun e.g. my upcoming self-portrait series playing around with various facial expressions!

My chosen specialism is predominately oil painting where I regard my art style as "undefined". Being isolated from the academic field of Fine Art has left me quite unrestrained in popular techniques for example, where dark to light is often praised in oil painting, I go from light to dark. This childlike innovation is what drove me to create my own institution named High School 7. Here, I undertake Fine Art through self-tutoring via a tailored curriculum and the guidance of my ancestors. Admittedly, I seek further art guidance e.g. understanding facial proportions and human anatomy via more established artists, YouTube videos, etc. To note, whilst maintaining an explorative tactic by challenging some proposed techniques.

Furthermore, in order to strengthen storytelling aspects beyond the scope of painting - I just like creating and sometimes finding other ways to express myself via film, poetry, sculpture, light, textiles, make-up and crafts.