OLAOLU SLAWN: ARTIST OF THE YEAR 2024

Olaolu Slawn is our Artist of the Year 2024, solidifying his influence in the art and culture space. Known for his groundbreaking contributions, including innovative graffiti work, collaborations with top brands like Clint, Gabriel Moses, and Brother’s Keeper for i-D Magazine, Slawn has consistently pushed boundaries in storytelling and visual art.

Slawn collaborated with luxury watchmaker Rolex, reimagining their timepieces with his bold and vivid style. This partnership bridged the gap between traditional craftsmanship and modern artistic innovation, showcasing Slawn’s unique ability to redefine luxury aesthetics.

In May, Slawn was commissioned by the Football Association to redesign the 2024 FA Cup trophy. His reinterpretation of the iconic symbol honored football’s legacy while introducing a bold, contemporary aesthetic.

©Slawn

Also in May, Slawn joined forces with British rapper and TV personality Big Zuu for the “Drip Curates” art series. This collaboration merged visual art and music culture, underscoring Slawn’s interdisciplinary approach.

In July, Slawn released the limited-edition “Ugly Bastard” sculpture with Avant Arte. This provocative piece highlighted his ability to blend street culture and fine art, offering collectors a tangible reflection of his unique vision.

Between September 12 and October 20, Slawn held his first major solo exhibition in London at Saatchi Yates Gallery. The show highlighted his evolution as an artist and showcased new works that cemented his place in contemporary art.

©Ravi Sidhu

In November, Slawn partnered with London-based car culture collective Spot to transform the Lancia Delta Integrale. Collaborating with expert Tanc Barratt, he reimagined the Martini racing livery, adding his signature colors and oversized caricatures.

Also in November, the British-Nigerian teamed up with Ferrari to create a striking art piece using a 1998 Ferrari 348 Spider as his canvas. The collaboration showcased Slawn’s signature style with cartoon-like figures and the phrase “SLAWN-STRIP” prominently displayed on the front of the vehicle.

© Slawn

Throughout the year, Slawn worked with THE SKATEROOM to launch limited-edition skateboard artworks. This project reflected his roots in skate culture, making his art both functional and accessible.

© Danil Lavrovski

Olaolu Slawn’s body of work exemplifies his range and adaptability. From luxury collaborations to public art projects and exhibitions, Slawn continually challenged boundaries, leaving an indelible mark on the art world.

Slawn’s journey through 2024 was nothing short of remarkable. His ability to blend raw street energy with refined artistry captured the attention of global audiences and redefined how we perceive contemporary art. From redesigning an iconic football trophy to turning a classic car into a canvas, Slawn proved that no medium is too big—or too small—for his creative genius.

More than just an artist, he’s a storyteller, a disruptor, and a bridge between cultures and disciplines. As we look to the future, one thing is clear: Slawn isn’t just shaping art; he’s shaping the culture itself.