For 27-year-old visual artist Oboh Joshua, art is more than self-expression—it is a craft built on patience, consistency and the willingness to keep improving.
Speaking on Trade FM’s Breakfast Business Briefing, Joshua, who has been drawing since the age of five, explained how his childhood interest in drawing superheroes and comics gradually developed into a serious artistic career.
His work is particularly centred on stippling, a painstaking technique that uses thousands of individual ink dots to create detailed figurative artworks.
Joshua says the technique demands exceptional patience and attention to detail, noting that every dot contributes to the final image.
Beyond the creative process, he highlighted the business challenges facing Nigerian artists, particularly access to customers who are willing to pay for highly detailed handmade works.
According to him, reaching international collectors and leveraging online galleries and social media have become important avenues for artists seeking to expand their market.
He encouraged emerging artists to consistently showcase their work on platforms such as Instagram, TikTok and X, stressing that visibility can help attract potential clients and build a following.
Joshua also advised young artists not to wait until they have expensive materials before starting their careers.
He recalled beginning with basic pencils and ballpoint pens, saying artists can start small while continuously developing their skills and experimenting with new techniques.
Looking ahead, Joshua said he is working towards organising an exhibition with fellow artists, while urging young creatives to pursue what they are passionate about.
He summed up his message simply: “Chase your dream.”
