About Me

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Hey there, I’m Kehinde Daniel Ojo, but known to most people as Kenny. I'm a Nigerian photorealistic pencil artist, storyteller and founder of KennyDanielArt. For over eight years, I’ve dedicated myself to creating hyper-detailed portraits that go beyond capturing likeness but uncover the stories, spirits and cultural roots of Africa.

My Journey as an Artist

My love for art began in my childhood, I used to draw just for fun and sketching for the sheer joy of it, never knowing it would become my life’s calling. Despite limited early support, I persisted and letting art guide me through life’s seasons. A pivotal moment came on the 16th of August 2016 when an unexpected injury ended my pursuit of professional cycling. For over five months on sick bed, I immersed myself in drawing daily, transforming passion into purpose and purpose into skill. 

I landed my first commission, a modest but meaningful milestone. I hadn't planned on making money from my art and I didn't even know what the "art business" was. But that little beginning sparked something. But then, 2017 became my journey into the art career and I began building my portfolio piece by piece out of curiosity and grit. That same year, I got admitted at Adekunle Ajasin University to study English and Literary Studies, where I connected with fellow artists. A year later, I was elected President of the Association of Revolutionary Artists (ARA), leading the university’s first ever art workshop, a weekly space for students to grow their skills and creativity. That experience taught me the power of vision, leadership and building a lasting creative community.

A defining moment also came on the 21st of April 2019 when I was invited to deliver an art speech to a group of students in a nearby community. Sharing my journey and inspiring the students, I realized my work wasn’t just about creating art, it was about awakening purpose in others through it.

My Artistic Mission

My art is a form of remembrance. Each pencil shading unearths African narratives, beauty and identity that history has overlooked or silenced. My portraits tell the story of Africa through its patterns, symbols, and the soulful gaze of the people I draw.

Over the years, I’ve taken on commissions both locally and internationally, including my first from the United States. Through social media, I’ve connected with artists worldwide, mentoring emerging talents and teaching them how to grow, not just as creators but as voices. Majority of the young artists I've guided are doing incredibly well today and that's one of my proudest joys.

What This Blog Is About

Here is where I share the heart of my work. Beyond finished portraits, this blog reveals the raw sketches, late-night reflections, cultural insights and quiet breakthroughs that shape my art. It’s a space to explore the messy, beautiful process of creation and to reclaim the stories that define us.

Whether you’re an artist, a cultural enthusiast or simply curious, I’m honored to have you here. Join me as we rediscover our stories together. Visit my Contact page to connect, collaborate or share your thoughts. I’d love to hear from you. Also subscribe to stay updated on new posts and let’s embark on this journey together.

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