Professor Bolaji Ogunwo of the Department of Fine and Applied Arts, Faculty of Creative Arts, University of Lagos (UNILAG), is currently undertaking a semester-long visiting professorship at the Department of Art and Design, Missouri State University in the United States. This residency underscores UNILAG’s commitment to global collaboration and promotion of Nigerian artistry on the international stage. It also reflects the growing academic and cultural exchange between Nigerian and American institutions.
Renowned for his expertise in impasto painting, Prof. Ogunwo has spent the Spring 2026 semester teaching drawing and painting courses. His distinctive technique: applying paint in thick layers with a palette knife, introduced Missouri State students to bold textures and expressive approaches deeply rooted in African artistic traditions. Through his teaching, students were encouraged to explore creativity beyond conventional boundaries while gaining a deeper appreciation of Nigerian art and culture.
Beyond the classroom, Prof. Ogunwo has actively engaged with the wider Missouri community. He organised a painting workshop at Lebanon High School; presented a portrait to retired Judge Stan Moore; completed a mural at the Lustre Arcade, Downtown West Plains, and exhibited his collection, Rough Idea, at the Jim D. Morris Center. The exhibition examined how culture and climate shape human experience, offering audiences perspectives informed by his Nigerian heritage and international travels.
Strengthening Global Partnerships
Prof. Ogunwo’s connection to Missouri dates back to 2012, when he met Art Collector and former Associate Vice Chancellor of Business Support Services, Crockett Oaks III, in Lagos. Since then, he has returned to Missouri on several occasions to create murals celebrating African and African American history. This latest residency further strengthens the relationship, deepening cultural ties while amplifying UNILAG’s global presence and reputation as a hub of creative excellence.
Institutional Pride and Future Outlook
For Prof. Ogunwo, the semester has been both professionally rewarding and personally transformative. It has provided an opportunity to share Nigerian artistry with new audiences while also enriching his own artistic practice.
For UNILAG, the visiting professorship represents both a source of institutional pride and a testament to the University’s dedication to fostering international partnerships. Prof. Ogunwo’s achievements highlight UNILAG’s commitment to encouraging global engagement among its faculty and ensuring that students benefit from diverse perspectives and cross-cultural experiences.
The exchange also lays the groundwork for future academic collaborations, reinforcing UNILAG’s role in shaping a truly global academic community.
