WHY DID I DO IT?
Because I can, duh, okay seriously, because I love these stories, the stories contained in those seinen manga pages, the stories the writers try to tell through their art, the struggle to keep releasing masterpieces amidst uncertainties, pain, psychological issues, and just life in general. When I read these stories, I have a genuine appreciation for the art form, and I'm just grateful to be here to experience it. These stories mean a lot to me, as they do to the people who wrote them and I wanted to share my love for them. That's why I did it.
WHO IS BAMBINO
Olatubosun Owonifari is a Nigerian-born UX designer and digital artist based in Barcelona. He has always been captivated by Manga, drawn to its dynamic narratives, intricate characters, and bold stylistic choices. This early passion stayed with him through college, where he studied Computer technology and honed his skills in composition, typography, and user-centered aesthetics. Over time, his fascination with visual storytelling and culture evolved into a creative practice that blends his design expertise with his love for Manga’s unique aesthetic.
Working primarily with Figma, Olatubosun creates striking halftone and Manga-inspired posters that merge his design expertise with his deep appreciation for the art form. His work explores the intersection of replication and originality, inspired by the adage "Every masterpiece has its cheap copy." Through careful reinterpretation, he pays homage to legendary Manga artists such as Tsutomu Nihei, Takehiko Inoue, Naoki Urasawa, and Yuto Suzuki, while also injecting his own perspective into each piece.
His latest collection, “In the Shadow of Giants”, reimagines iconic Manga characters and themes through digital printmaking. Utilizing 4x0 plotter printing on 200gsm matte paper with solvent ink, he brings these works to life with his distinct aesthetic. Each piece serves as both a tribute and a commentary on the evolving nature of artistic influence, questioning the fine line between homage and transformation.
Olatubosun’s work invites viewers to engage with the familiar in new ways, challenging perceptions of authenticity, adaptation, and artistic legacy.