The Wax Series by Kunle Paints

Ankara, aka African Wax or African Print, has been synonymous with West African identity since the late 1800s. Though origins of the print are rooted in Asian techniques, the wax print has morphed so irreversibly to resemble the lively, loud and bold ideals of West Africans.

It is this backdrop of culture that Nigerian digital Artist, Adekunle Adeleke, uses to dominate every single whitespace of his portraits. Each piece of art in his Wax Series is a celebration of African adaptation, but also tradition and culture. It is also a celebration of the Black woman and man - each portrait is poised in confidence.

And in many of his portraits, he uses classic print designs that have been loved for ages - reprinted over and over to become part and parcel of any household. Many of these classic designs are so loved that they have their unique names, reminiscent of African proverbs.

See some of our favourite artworks below.

Find out more about Adekunle’s work on his Instagram and website.