From Lagos to London to Dubai, Toyosi Olowe has become a name that bridges continents through art. As a British-Nigerian artist, creative director, and art consultant, she’s redefining what it means to merge fine art with luxury. Her bespoke pieces now grace celebrity homes in Hollywood and high-end spaces in Dubai and Saudi Arabia. Recognised as a Top 100 UK Female Founder by The Telegraph & NatWest, Toyosi continues to make bold strokes across the global art scene — from exhibiting at Christie’s to appearing on Channels Television and Khaleej Times.
Today, we speak with Toyosi about her creative journey, her Nigerian roots, and how she’s building a global art empire that stays deeply connected to home.
Toyosi, congratulations on all you’ve achieved so far. Can you take us back to where it all started — when did you first realise that art would become your life’s work?
Thank you. I’ve always been creative, my art teachers noticed my gift during secondary school and put me forward for a gifted and talented art summer school. As my Nigerian parents encouraged me to go to university, the paint brush / sketch books were left for years and the real turning point came when I left my corporate role at KPMG to pursue art full-time. What began as on-the-job training in my craft for a Corporate project reignited my calling. I wanted to live a life where all my skills, talents can work together like a masterpiece. It’s been a journey of trusting divine timing and allowing purpose to unfold through creativity & business.
Many know you as both an artist and an entrepreneur. How do you balance creativity with the business side of art?
Discipline and vision. I treat my art as both my purpose and a business — one serves the soul, the other sustains the mission. My background in business helps me structure projects, while my creative side ensures everything I do carries meaning. I’ve learned that excellence is spiritual — it’s about being a good steward of your gifts.
I delegate tasks to my team from the business side, and organise my schedule between creating new art and then dedicate my schedule to client facing work and art-consultation and site visits. My calendar and My PA help me find the balance.
You’ve had your work exhibited at Christie’s, one of the most prestigious galleries in the world. How did that experience feel for you as a Nigerian artist on a global platform?
It was deeply humbling, I was so proud of my journey. Seeing my work at Christie’s Late’s London, under the theme of Migration and Memory, felt like a full-circle moment — representing my heritage and global voice in a space of such prestige. It reminded me that representation matters, and that African narratives deserve to sit confidently within global art conversations. The art fit right in on those luxurious walls and confirmed that when we dream big and work hard, nothing is out of reach.
Your artworks now hang in luxury homes from Los Angeles to Dubai. What inspires your creative process when working with such diverse clients and spaces?
Every client is different and I find joy creating and supplying art with their needs and my style in mind. Each space tells a story — my role is to translate emotion into visual form. Whether it’s a villa in Dubai or a Hollywood home, I focus on how the art should feel and compliment or upgrade the space. I’m inspired by culture, light, and abstract forms— I design to create curiosity, inspiration, and timeless beauty into people’s environments.
Tell us about your company, ToyoWrites (TW) — what’s the story behind its name and philosophy?
TW began as affirmation and words of encouragement on instagram during COVID. Followers would often reshare and celebrities resonated with the words too. I would share words, as a personal creative outlet, sell affirmation art and then built a full blown international art brand. The name ToyoWrites reflects the idea that I’m not just painting — I’m writing stories through art. I also sign all my artworks with the TW branding. The philosophy is simple: to create with purpose, elevate spaces with meaning, and remind people that creativity can change atmospheres.
You were recognised among The Telegraph and NatWest’s Top 100 Female Founders. What did that recognition mean to you personally and professionally?
It was an honour and a reminder that faith and excellence go hand in hand. That recognition validated years of quiet building, huge risks and sacrifices. I am the first entrepreneur in my family, proving that creative entrepreneurship is rewarding when done with integrity, faith and vision. Personally, it reaffirmed that I’m operating in my purpose.
How has your Nigerian heritage shaped your art, your perspective, and your global journey?
My Nigerian heritage is my core, it reminds me of home. Oftentimes when I travel there I get a huge surge of creativity and new art collections. I was raised in London but I was born in Ibadan, Nigerian culture constantly influences my art from my colour choices, to silhouettes and shapes. Even as I create globally, my identity remains rooted in where I come from. My collectors from all backgrounds resonate well with my art style & recommendations, and I’m constantly evolving but a story remains in each piece of art.
You recently spoke at a university and have appeared on Channels TV. How important is it for you to inspire other young African creatives through storytelling and mentorship?
It’s one of the most fulfilling parts of my work. I always honoured to be asked to speak at these impactful places and platforms. I believe success means little if you don’t pull others up with you. I want young creatives to know that their gifts can open global doors — that faith, excellence, and courage can take them beyond what they imagine. Opening doors of opportunity is part of my legacy.
Art can often be seen as a luxury. How do you make your work both aspirational and accessible to people across different markets?
I believe art is for everyone — it’s about emotion and experience, not just price. My art has been purchased by Hollywood Elite, Iconic CEOs and art enthusiasts. They are attracted to the beauty of the art and the journey I’ve been on as an artist. Through limited editions, collaborations, and exhibitions, I’ve been able to reach different audiences while maintaining quality. My goal is always to make art that feels personal, even when it’s placed in the most luxurious of spaces. I have a team, I work with galleries, interior designers and real estate experts to deliver art on a global scale.
Sustainability has become a major theme in global art and design. How does that influence your work and the materials you choose?
Sustainability is at the heart of my brand’s philosophy. I collaborate with galleries that source responsibly and produce with minimal environmental impact. For me, sustainability also means creating art that lasts — emotionally and spiritually. It’s about legacy, not just trends.
You’re currently working on your debut book — can you share what readers should expect and what inspired it?
The book is an honest reflection of my journey — from corporate to creative, from risk to reward. It’s a guide for anyone who feels called to build something greater than themselves. Readers can expect faith, storytelling, strategy, and truth. It’s about how vision, courage, and purpose can completely redefine your life.
What’s next for you — any upcoming projects or collaborations we should be looking forward to?
I’m expanding my art consultancy in the Middle East, partnering with developers and galleries to integrate meaningful art into luxury spaces. I’m working on my book and developing new art collections that explore themes of migration, beauty, and peace. Above all, I’m trusting God for the next divine door — every season unfolds with grace. Collectors and creatives should get ready to enjoy a new level of my journey.
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