That's 5 | Olaolu Slawn

Where did you grow up and where are you spending most of your time now?

I grew up in Lagos Nigeria. Now I spend most of my time now In my studio in Limehouse doing stupid shit.

When did you realise art and design were important to you?

I didn’t even realise how important art & design was, I still haven’t realised. It’s more like programming, I don’t think about it, it just happens.

Why do you think your work resonates?

I don’t think my work resonates with audiences, I think my behaviour or personality did. I genuinely don’t see my art as “SICK”, or whatever, I’m happy people do, don’t get me wrong, but I do this shit to keep busy and stay sane. I feel like I’m selling bits of myself so I don’t think it’s my art that resonates with people, I think I do, if that makes sense? Like I’m an escort, you feel me?

Lagos feels like a hotbed for creative talent right now. Why do you think that is?

It’s always been a hotbed for creative shit, it’s just that now you’re seeing it.

Skating is a big passion of yours. How has that impacted on your work?

When I started skating it was like opening Pandora’s box. I saw a lot and I took a lot from it, good and bad. It’s played a big role.

You’ve got your own clothing brand, you model, you’re an artist across multiple disciplines. What’s next for you?

I am making plans to take over the real estate scene in the UK. Tell them I’m comin’.

Follow Slawn at @olaoluslawn.