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.

Photo by Enno Knuth for High Snobiety

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?

Photo by Vice

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.

Photo by Supreme New York.

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.