We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Ajayi-olowo Precious a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Ajayi-Olowo, thanks for joining us today. Do you think your parents have had a meaningful impact on you and your journey?

My parents have been the cornerstone of my journey, each contributing uniquely to who I am today and the success of my art career. Their values, teachings, and unwavering support have left an indelible mark on my life.

My mum has always been my greatest cheerleader, recognizing my love for art early on and nurturing it even when it was just a hobby in college. Her encouragement pushed me to explore more ideas, refine my craft, and take my passion seriously. During my university years, when life became a whirlwind of academic responsibilities and intense art projects, she was my anchor. No matter how hectic my schedule was or how challenging the tasks became, she never left my side. Instead of discouraging me under the weight of it all, she motivated me to push through and supported my endeavors to improve my skills and expand my presence in the art world.

Beyond emotional support, she played a critical role in practical aspects of my career. When I was setting up Olowoart, she was instrumental in processing the legal documentation and ensuring everything was in order. Her belief in my vision gave me the courage to establish my brand and grow it into what it is today.

While my dad is no longer with us, his lessons continue to guide me every step of the way. He taught me the value of hard work, dedication, and prayerfulness—principles that I hold close to my heart in every venture I pursue. His belief in the power of perseverance and faith was a lesson I watched him live out daily. Naming my company “Olowo” is my way of honoring his legacy and keeping his memory alive. It’s a constant reminder of the foundation he laid for me and the values he instilled in me.

I vividly recall moments with both my parents—my mum cheering me on during sleepless nights of projects, and my dad’s wise words ringing in my ears, urging me to stay committed to my goals and always lean on prayer. Together, they have shaped me into the person I am today. Their influence is woven into every artwork I create and every milestone I achieve with Olowoart. Their love and teachings are the true masterpieces of my life.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My name is Precious Olowo, though many know me by my creative identity, Princess. I am a digital artist, and my art company, Olowoart, is a celebration of culture, heritage, and individuality. Olowoart was born out of a deep passion for showcasing the beauty and uniqueness of African culture, with a special emphasis on dark-skinned African women.

My journey into the world of art began in my early years, nurtured by a love for creating and expressing emotions visually. However, it wasn’t until my college days that this passion became something I took seriously, thanks to my mum’s unwavering support. From encouraging me to explore new ideas to helping me process the legal documentation for my company, she played a pivotal role in making my dream a reality.

Olowoart officially launched in 2020 with my first solo exhibition in China. It was an incredible experience where people from different countries and cultures came together to celebrate art that bridges tradition and modernity. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of working on several exhibitions and projects, including collaborations with organizations like Wenzhou Media in Wenzhou city, China.

At Olowoart, I provide a range of creative works, including digital paintings, beautifully crafted journals, wall art, and personalized artwork. My art often features bold, vibrant color palettes, rich cultural elements, and unique themes that celebrate identity, beauty, and heritage. One of my proudest projects is a coloring book that showcases African women in tribal attire, paired with positive affirmations—a therapeutic and inspiring experience for adults who enjoy art.

What sets me apart is the heart and authenticity I pour into my work. My art is more than just visual—it tells a story. It’s about preserving culture, celebrating uniqueness, and evoking emotion. Every piece I create carries a piece of my heritage and reflects the beauty of diversity. My father, who taught me the value of hard work, dedication, and prayer, also remains a key inspiration for me. Naming my company Olowoart was a way to honor his legacy and keep his memory alive.

I’m most proud of how Olowoart has grown into a brand that resonates with people from different backgrounds. Whether it’s through the intricate details of my “Mama Africa” piece or the vibrant contrasts in “Natural Heiress,” I strive to create artwork that speaks to the soul.

For potential clients, followers, and fans, I want you to know that Olowoart is not just a business—it’s a movement to celebrate culture, identity, and creativity. Whether you’re looking for meaningful wall art, personalized pieces, or unique digital products, my goal is to provide you with works that inspire, empower, and connect. Thank you for being part of this journey with me!

Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?

One of the most challenging things for non-creatives to understand about the journey of a creative is the unconventional nature of the decisions we make and the sacrifices we endure to pursue our passions. I’ve had days when I used my feeding money or even part of my saved up resources to buy art materials or equipment. To many of my friends and acquaintances at the time, these decisions seemed outright reckless. They’d question why I was investing so much in something that, to them, didn’t seem like a guaranteed path to success.

But for creatives like me, these choices aren’t as crazy as they seem. They’re leaps of faith we take because we believe in the value of our craft and our potential to grow. I’m sure many other creatives have faced similar moments—those times when we make what appear to be irrational decisions because we understand the long-term benefits that others may not see. These risks often feel daunting, especially when the immediate outcomes are unclear, but they’re also opportunities to sharpen our skills, deepen our expertise, and expand our creative boundaries.

There were also countless nights when I barely slept, working tirelessly to meet deadlines for projects. It wasn’t uncommon for me to go on marathons of two or three days with hardly any rest, juggling art projects and academic responsibilities. The pressure was immense, but the passion and determination to create something meaningful kept me going.

Being a creative is as much about passion as it is about resilience. We take steps of faith, often without overthinking the potential repercussions, because we know that growth requires taking risks. It’s not always easy, and the path isn’t always clear, but the experiences we gain, the stories we tell, and the skills we develop make it all worth it.

So, to those who may not understand why creatives do what we do, here’s the insight: our journey is built on belief—belief in our craft, in our ability to create, and in the idea that our work has value, even if it takes time for others to see it. And for anyone reading this who might be standing at a similar crossroads, wondering if a risky decision is worth it—sometimes, the best things come from taking that leap of faith.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the joy I witness on people’s faces when they come across my work. It’s not just about the beauty and warmth my art brings to their homes; it’s about the connection, peace, and comfort they feel when they interact with it. Seeing how my pieces resonate with people, how they evoke emotions or inspire a sense of calm, is something I never take for granted. That connection is priceless and truly fulfilling.

On a personal level, art has always been my safe space. It’s where I turn no matter how I’m feeling—whether I’m overwhelmed, happy, sad, or contemplative. Art is my succor, my refuge. It brings me peace, excitement, fulfillment, and blessings in ways that words cannot fully describe. It’s a feeling that grounds me and gives me purpose, better than anything else I’ve experienced.

One of the most fulfilling aspects of my journey as an artist is the ability to promote African art, culture, and diversity through my creations. It’s a central theme in my work—showcasing the beauty and richness of African heritage to a global audience. This not only sparks interest and awareness about the diversity of African cultures but also strengthens global relationships and appreciation for African art. Knowing that my work contributes to cultural preservation and bridges the gap between different parts of the world gives me an immense sense of satisfaction and fulfillment.

In essence, the rewards of being an artist go beyond just creating—it’s about touching lives, creating connections, and leaving a legacy that celebrates and uplifts culture and humanity.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @olowoart_princess
• Other: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1C8IqQbJyKq2jKq6Ev-u_K9VilerzuJH3/view?usp=drivesdk

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