When you see giant sculptures made by Dotun Popoola, you need a second look to be sure the beauty before you is not alive. It is as if he breathes life into the dead waste. Popoola is a renowned Nigerian Synergetic Metal Sculptor celebrated for his innovative approach to transforming waste materials into stunning art. His impressive, vibrant sculptures of animals and people, crafted from scrap and recycled materials, are more than just artistic creations; they are a powerful statement against environmental degradation and waste.
Popoola’s artistic journey began at the tender age of 4, when he first discovered his passion for art. Recognizing his talent, his father enrolled him in art classes where he honed his skills in painting and sculpting. He furthered his education by pursuing a master’s degree in sculpture at Obafemi Awolowo University, which he completed in 2014.
In 2015, driven by a desire to expand his expertise, Popoola sold his car to fund a mentorship opportunity in South Dakota, USA. There, he learned the art of welding iron into intricate designs. Upon returning to Lagos, he began experimenting with scrap metal, which soon became his unique “visual language.” His breakthrough came with a successful exhibition in Lagos, solidifying his place in the art world.
Dotun Popoola’s art transcends mere visual appeal. He views scrap metal as a symbol of societal issues and believes in its potential to create economic opportunities. His larger projects, which can take up to two years to complete, are often awe-inspiring. Among his most innovative works is a 100% Nigerian “scrap-mask” featuring Bluetooth earphones, AM/FM radio, and temperature regulation.
To share his knowledge and foster emerging talent, Dotun Popoola established the Scrap Art Museum near Obafemi Awolowo University. This museum, adorned with 3D art made from recycled materials, serves as both a training center for aspiring artists and a platform for showcasing his work. He has mentored between 400-500 individuals across Nigeria, Kenya, and Uganda, with a vision to train over 1,000 people in each country he reaches, aiming to provide resources and reduce migration out of Africa.
Popoola’s impact extends beyond art; he creates economic opportunities by employing locals to gather metal for his projects and the museum, thus providing them with a stable income. His efforts contribute to a recycling economy and help mitigate waste in Nigeria.
Despite the challenges faced by African artists, including limited infrastructure for art, Popoola remains hopeful about the growth of Nigeria’s art market. His commitment is evident in his willingness to invest his own resources into his museum project, underscoring his dedication to advancing the arts in Nigeria.
For Popoola, success is defined by his growth as an artist and the influence of his work. He aspires to tell his story and inspire others: “I want to tell my story. I want to tell my truth with my work. Most importantly, I want to tell young artists to keep the hope alive. If you keep doing what you do, one day you’ll be in the spotlight and the world will be watching.”
Through his innovative art and dedication to mentorship, Dotun Popoola is not only creating remarkable sculptures but also fostering talent and opportunities throughout Africa. His vision for a cleaner, more vibrant art community in Nigeria continues to inspire and lead by example.
