Oluwaseyi ‘Shayee’ Awoyomi: A Legacy of Art and Cultural Representation

Oluwaseyi Awoyomi, widely known as Shayee, is a distinguished artist whose work embodies the essence of Nigerian culture and artistry. As the daughter of two legendary figures in the art world—Chief Twins Seven Seven, a celebrated visual and performance artist, and Chief, Dr. Mrs. Oyenike "Nike" Okundaye, a pioneer in Adire textile art and founder of Nike Art Gallery—Shayee's creative journey was destined from birth.

A Lifelong Passion for Artistic Expression

Shayee’s artistic odyssey began in her childhood, crafting an 8ft by 4ft seed bead painting alongside her mother. This masterpiece found its way to the palace of the King of Ede, marking the beginning of her deep-rooted passion for artistic expression. Over the years, she has explored various artistic forms, staying true to her belief that:

"Art is a language; the dialects are the various mediums with which she communicates."

Her diverse portfolio includes beadwork, paintings, and Adire textile designs, an art form she inherited as a sixth-generation Adire artisan. While preserving traditional techniques, she infuses contemporary elements to appeal to a global audience, making her work both timeless and innovative.

Championing Nigerian Art on the Global Stage

Beyond her personal artistry, Shayee is a key figure in promoting Nigerian art internationally. As the driving force behind Nike Art Gallery USA, she provides a platform for indigenous artists to gain international recognition through initiatives like the Visiting Artist Program.

Through this program, she has helped talents like Samuel Uzoma, Akeem Adeleke, and Babatunde ‘Director Kay’ Kolawole showcase their work to wider audiences, ensuring that Nigerian artistry continues to thrive beyond borders.

Preserving Heritage, Inspiring the Future

A true custodian of her parents' legacies, Shayee is not just preserving Nigeria’s rich artistic heritage—she is redefining it. Through her innovative approach and commitment to cultural promotion, she continues to bridge the past with the future, ensuring that the vibrancy of Nigerian art resonates across generations.

Happily married and residing in New York, Shayee remains a torchbearer of Nigerian creativity, proving that art is more than an expression—it is a powerful force for cultural identity and global connection.