Kelani Fatai considers himself one of the “luckiest” artists in Africa after receiving a commission from Tina Knowles to design the cover of her upcoming book — an opportunity that he believes has transformed the course of his career.

The Lagos-based artist was first approached by Knowles, mother of pop icons Beyoncé and Solange, in 2023. Fatai was overjoyed when she later requested him to create the illustration for her book cover.

“I initially thought it was a prank. I didn’t believe it was real and felt I wasn’t up to that level,” he shared with the YSL News Network. “But she turned what I thought was a joke into reality and provided me with guidance.”

Knowles — affectionately known as Mama Tina by her many admirers — revealed plans to publish her memoir titled “Matriarch” on April 22.

 
“I feel like one of the luckiest artists in Africa because I’m honored to have created the cover painting. It’s such a privilege, and I will always be thankful for that,” Fatai expressed. “For someone from Nigeria, that’s quite rare. I’m not very well-known globally, yet she elevated my visibility and connected me to people. I owe this success to her and am proud that she chose me.”

Fatai’s Path from Lagos to Prominence

Hailing from Mushin, a bustling area in Lagos, Fatai began sketching at the age of six. His talent was evident as he drew for teachers and classmates during elementary school. When his father recognized his abilities, he actively encouraged Fatai’s artistic development.

“My father introduced me to training sessions with roadside artists,” Fatai explained. These artists created and sold their work on the streets of Lagos.

After completing this informal training in 2012, he started showcasing his own pieces on the streets in 2014. Shortly thereafter, he gained admission to the esteemed Yaba College of Technology, where he studied Fine Arts and pursued various programs over the following years.

Then, like many others, Fatai’s life took a turn due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“In 2020, during lockdowns, events were scarce. But by 2021, everyone was eager to connect again. We could freely go out,” he recounted. “This was when I began to promote my personal works and collections, exploring new creative avenues.”

As he started sharing his art, he received invitations to participate in exhibitions worldwide.

“I was surprised by the positive feedback I received,” he stated.

A Partnership with Tina Knowles

Tina Knowles was one of the first to appreciate his talent, reaching out to him in 2023. He credits this opportunity largely to the influence of social media.

Before requesting the cover art, Knowles had commissioned several other pieces from him, greatly assisting his business and sustaining his artistic ambitions.

“She introduced me to several of her contacts, and I created pieces for them as well. Since meeting her, she has consistently supported my work,” he noted.

Eventually, she asked him to illustrate the cover for her memoir, “Matriarch,” which he completed over the course of a month.

Fatai regards Knowles as his most important collaborator to date, stating that their partnership has been a pivotal moment in his artistic journey.

“She’s the most significant collaborator I’ve had. Even if I work with others in the future, she will remain the most important, having brought my work to a wider audience,” he said.

Using Art to Showcase the Richness of Black Beauty

As a versatile impressionist and realist, Fatai’s artwork has been exhibited in various galleries and museums both within Nigeria and internationally. His creations often highlight the beauty and depth of Black identity.

“Some pieces of mine feature Victorian styles of clothing as a way to celebrate the richness and uniqueness of Black beauty,” he mentioned.

For the cover of “Matriarch,” Fatai infused his signature style into the painting. However, he emphasizes, “I’m the kind of artist who refuses to be confined to just one style.”

Despite achieving significant milestones, he maintains a grounded perspective toward his future.

“I am still evolving because I learn something new every day,” he remarked.

Follow Caché McClay, the News Network’s Beyoncé Knowles-Carter reporter, on Instagram, TikTok, and X as @cachemcclay.