Toyin Lawani, Bimbo Ademoye, Etinosa, others  storm Ayoka Thompson’s studio unveiling in Lagos

Fashion entrepreneur and style icon Toyin Lawani, alongside Nollywood stars Bimbo Ademoye,  Etinosa Idemudia, among others  led a high-profile gathering of creatives and tastemakers at the unveiling of renowned contemporary artist Ayoka Thompson The Great’s new studio and exhibition in Lekki, Lagos.

The exclusive event, which also marked the debut of Thompson’s latest body of work titled Finding Self, drew an elite audience from Nigeria’s art, fashion, media and business circles, reinforcing the growing cultural convergence between visual art, celebrity influence and thought leadership.

Lawani, founder of Tiannah’s Empire and popularly known as the King of Fashion, was vocal in her admiration for Thompson’s work, describing the collection as a bold and intimate exploration of identity, vulnerability and creative courage.

She praised the artist’s ability to translate deeply personal experiences into minimalist yet emotionally resonant visual narratives, noting that such originality places Thompson in a distinct class within Nigeria’s contemporary art space.

The presence of celebrities, Bimbo Ademoye, Etinosa and others further amplified the exhibition’s cultural significance, as they joined other invited guests in engaging with the immersive showcase and touring Thompson’s newly opened studio.

The studio access offered rare insight into the artist’s creative process and the environment where her reflective ideas take form.

Finding Self presents a curated collection of new works that explore introspection, presence and personal discovery, inviting viewers to reflect rather than be instructed.

Organiser described the exhibition as an open-ended conversation between the artist and the audience, encouraging individual interpretation and emotional connection.

With its blend of celebrity presence, artistic depth and intimate storytelling, the unveiling underscored Ayoka Thompson’s growing influence in Nigeria’s contemporary art scene and highlighted her evolving ability to merge personal narrative with universal themes.