Kikelomo Solomon-Ayeni

How would you describe your business/creative practice? 

I am a professional commercial and fine art photographer. I use my skill to promote family bond and also advocate for the protection of women and children. 

Through red19 global, I curate artistic opportunities and visibility support for art creators especially those from ethnic minority communities. 

 

Can you tell us the story behind why you started your business/practice and your journey so far. 

My journey into photography is purely divine. I believe it is a life calling for me. I discovered photography in 2009 while I was in the university, went for training, carved my niche in children, maternity and family photography and other part of art found me along the way. 

Did you study at University? If so, where did you graduate from and what course did you study? 

 I did not study photography in the university. It was more of an informal training for 16months at Elo Photos Studio Lagos Nigeria. My 1st degree was BSc Chemistry Education from the Lagos state university in 2011 and my 2nd degree is MSc Management from the university of Derby. 

 

What UoD networks did you find useful during your studies and post graduation, if any? 

The union of student platform, particularly the Nigerian Student Society where I served as Secretary 2023/2024. 

 

What do you hope that being part of the Banks Mill community will do for your creative Business/practice? Is there one thing in particular that you’re looking forward to? 

Opportunity to network with other creatives who I can learn from and collaborate with. I also look forward to curating exhibitions that will be held in Banks Mill Studio. 

Do you have any other work experience/support/or training that’s relevant to what you’re doing now? 

I have done photography and art entrepreneurship trainings from several organisations including, Gulf Photo Plus Dubai, Nova Scotia Community College, Canada, Nigeria, Photography expo and Conference, Enterprise Development Centre of the Pan Atlantic, University, Lagos etc.

 

What are you working on at the moment? 

 I am working on a group art exhibition for 1st quarter 2026. I hope to get partners and sponsors so it can be free for artists to participate.