Talent is just the beginning, says King Ereso

Lagos artist King Ereso believes his rise in the art world comes from faith, hard work, and a long-term focus. He says talent alone won’t get you far globally.

In an interview with Saturday Beats, Ereso shared that his artwork is currently on display at the Four Seasons Hotel in Singapore. He is also exclusively represented in Asia by Yang Gallery. He mentioned that years of hard work helped him prepare for these international chances.

Ereso stated, “Talent is just the starting point. It is the entry fee, not the ticket.” He added that his Christian faith has played a big role in his artistic journey.

He emphasized the importance of improving his skills. He prefers to focus on himself instead of comparing with other artists.

His Artistic Style

Talking about his art, Ereso said his works are inspired by his Edo heritage and the history of the Benin Kingdom. He also combines Ankara fashion and his unique teal color in his pieces.

He believes staying true to his Nigerian culture helps his art connect with collectors in Asia, Europe, and the Americas. “I have never seen those two things as opposites. Being deeply rooted in who I am is exactly what makes the work feel universal,” he explained.

Ereso also responded to claims that his use of teal and Ankara is just symbolic. He sees these elements as personal parts of his identity.

He shared that his love for patterns, textiles, and fashion naturally appears in his paintings, sculptures, and other creative work.

Career Development

When discussing his career growth, Ereso praised Lagos-based Kontroversial Studios. He said they helped him adopt a long-term strategy instead of just seeking quick fame.

He explained that the company lets him concentrate on making art while also building connections with galleries and institutions that can support his career.

“Hustle without strategy is just exhaustion,” he said. He believes a solid management team has allowed him to take creative risks.

Ereso is excited about future collaborations with top global luxury brands. He believes that Nigerian contemporary art deserves a place on the world stage.

Beyond Painting

The artist also mentioned his interest in graphic design, sculpture, fashion, and character development. His original character, Dave, started in 2023 and aims to create a global storytelling universe through animation and episodic content.

He clarified that these creative areas have always been part of his work, not a shift in direction. “The canvas is the foundation, absolutely. But to limit myself to one medium would be to silence parts of myself,” he said.

To young Nigerian artists, Ereso advised them to dismiss doubts about achieving international success.