Two words that describe the “Royalty” work of art on Aworanka are: eclectic and introspective. The twelve-piece collection was designed on luster paper by an African digital artist and photographer Niyi Okeowo in 2021.

Royalty consists of varying images of a dark-skinned boy, a green-eyed leopard, and a black panther also known as a black leopard amongst Africans. While Royalty I, II, IV, V, VI, VIII depict images of a dark-skinned boy in a series of poses (as if in transition) against a vibrant floral background, Royalty III and XII depict images of a leopard and a black panther respectively. But one thing that stood out was the contrasting look between both animals. While one had a sad-haunting look in his eyes, the other looked fearless with bloodshot eyes.

Also In that collection, there's Royalty IX, a painting of a snake around the dark-skinned boy, with his palms clasped against each other, and eyes closed as if in prayers. Royalty vii and xi portray the similarities between the boy and the black panther which include authority, bravery, grace, and beauty.

The most intriguing part of this artwork perhaps is the expressive looks, which give food for thought as to what might be going through the mind of the artist. Another important thing about this collection is its use of vibrant floral background which is a cool contrast against the dark-skinned boy and the panthers. These two elements make the collection eclectic and phenomenal.

A closer look at the artwork creates a mood of tranquility that is yet, distressing.

Royalty portrays the bravery of boys when they go through the rite of passage; a form of ritual that marks their journey into manhood. Most times, the boys are isolated from their families, friends, and loved ones so that they can be circumcised and be trained on what adulthood entails before they are welcomed back into society.

You can own one of the artwork in Royalty collection here on Aworanka as the editions are limited and might be off the shop soon.

The Artist: Niyi Okeowo

Born and brought up in Nigeria, the 30-year-old digital artist consistently and impeccably combines popular elements with personal interests such as bright colors, music, social and political issues, and mental health in Nigeria. Niyi Okeowo also delves into minimalism and creates designs that are both pleasing and soothing to the eye.

Speaking on his professional journey, Niyi said: “I started with graphic design. After that I progressed gradually into photography by interning with Obi Somto and some other photographers, just going into their studios and watching them shoot. This happened around 2016 and it wasn't about 2018 before I started 3D design. Recently, I've been into 3D animations and AR (augmented reality).

As a digital artist and photographer, Niyi also worked as the art director on Apollo, the sophomore album of Nigerian afro-artist Fireboy DML that was released in 2020.

In 2021, some of his artwork from the “Royalty” collection were on display in ‘Framing Her’, an art exhibition staged by Gaia Africa in collaboration with Aworanka which featured eighty-three artworks from from nineteen different contemporary artists in Africa.