Biography
Early Years and Formation
Isimi Taiwo, widely known as ISIMISM, is a Nigerian artist, educator, and business leader whose career reflects a deliberate balance between creative mastery and structured leadership. His professional journey began outside the arts, with formal training in Mechanical Engineering, a background that instilled in him a strong sense of discipline, process, and technical precision. Despite this path, his commitment to creative expression led him to pursue advanced studies in Fine and Applied Arts, culminating in a Master’s degree in Creative Art (Painting) from the University of Lagos.
This transition marked a defining period in his development, shaping an approach to creativity grounded in research, patience, and intentional practice. During these formative years, he refined his technical skills, studied form and realism in depth, and began to develop a visual language that would later distinguish his work within Nigeria’s contemporary art landscape. He is an active member of the Society of Nigerian Artists (SNA) and has remained committed to continuous learning and professional growth.
Creative Philosophy and Artistic Practice
Isimi Taiwo is recognized as a leading figure in Nigeria’s hyperrealism art movement under the brand name Isimi Taiwo Studios. His work is characterized by a high level of technical accuracy, emotional depth, and narrative clarity, often exploring lived experience through hyperrealistic and surrealistic forms. A recurring element in his work is the use of water as a symbolic device, representing vulnerability, transition, and introspection.
While hyperrealism remains central to his practice, his creative scope extends into abstract expression and mixed media, reflecting a willingness to experiment while maintaining strong technical foundations. His philosophy treats creativity not as decoration, but as a disciplined system, one that requires structure, consistency, and intent to achieve lasting relevance.
Renowned for his oil-on-canvas paintings and detailed pencil works, Isimi Taiwo has exhibited at some of Nigeria’s most respected art institutions, including Terra Kulture and Nike Art Gallery. His contributions have been recognized through multiple accolades, most notably the CFA Awards for Best Artist of the Year in 2016 and 2018, alongside other professional honors. These achievements reflect sustained excellence rather than isolated moments, reinforcing his reputation for mastery and long-term commitment to his craft.
Leadership, Enterprise and Vision
Beyond his practice as an artist, Isimi Taiwo operates as a strategic leader focused on building sustainable organizations and scalable platforms. He serves as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Isimism Co. Ltd, a creative-led holding company that develops and supports ventures across art, education, marketing, recruitment, and professional services. He also provides executive oversight to Bintu’s Art and Everything, guiding its creative, marketing, and people-focused services in alignment with the broader vision of the Company.
His leadership approach emphasizes clarity, structure, and long-term value, positioning creativity as a strategic asset within business and professional environments. This vision extends into Isimism Academy, a learning and professional development platform offering practical training, workshops, and certifications designed to support skill development and career growth.
Gallery
Selected Artworks and Moments from The Founder’s Creative Journey.
