"Using Art to turn the problem of AN
Individual
INTO the CONCERN
of many"
- OLu FAMULE
Olumide Famule,
known as Olu Famule or simply Olu, is a Nigerian-American visual artist driven by a profound passion for using the arts as a tool to provoke social change, explore, and tell stories. From a young age, they have been fortunate to have grown up around black poets, painters, potters, weavers, and a father who specialized in teaching non-Western art history. As a Yoruba man, wherein Yoruba culture, oral storytelling holds a sacred significance, Olu translates this cultural essence into physical mediums while infusing the abstract, playful, spiritual, and provocative energy reminiscent of his predecessors.
Navigating the intricate intersections of being Nigerian-American, Olu confronts a complex historical narrative interwoven with the enduring imprints of colonialism, racism, sexism, homophobia, patriarchy, and white supremacy. In a quest to unravel these intricate influences, Olu endeavors to reconnect with a more personal worldview and artistic expression. The art they produce becomes a rebellious force, dynamically challenging societal rigidity and carving a distinctive space within a world constructed by those who remain disconnected from their lived experiences.
Regardless of medium, Olu's overarching vision is to fully immerse observers into the narratives they meticulously craft, inviting them to not only witness but to feel the raw emotions embodied by the individuals within the art, fostering a profound connection with the stories being told, making the problem of an individual now the concern of many.
Currently, Olu is exploring the realms of film and cinema as tools for storytelling. With plans to expand into mixed media and other mediums, They are on a quest to challenge conventional notions and further diversify their artistic expression. At the forefront of Olu's current projects is their debut docufiction, "This Isn't Working." The film delves into the lived experiences of a cohort of creatives of color, navigating the pursuit of becoming full-time artists within a society not inherently designed to accommodate them, their art, and their dreams. Through this venture, Olu continues to push the boundaries of storytelling, inviting audiences to engage with narratives that transcend societal barriers and Eurocentric norms.