Yinka Ilori

Over the past decade, Yinka Ilori MBE (b. 1987) has developed a truly multi-disci­plinary practice, blending expertise in architecture, sculpture, furniture, and both interior and graphic design. Often utilising the city as a canvas, his murals, pavilions, and architectural interventions are celebrated for fostering a deep sense of community. Rooted in themes of joy and optimism, Ilori’s work leverages the power of storytelling to bridge divides, fostering meaningful connections between individuals and the world around them.

Joy Through Resistance: He Who Laughs Last, Laughs Best represents Ilori’s most personal presentation to date, featuring over 20 new and recent works across painting, print, sculpture, and an immersive sound installation. Inspired by his British Nigerian heritage and the vibrant energy of communal gatherings, the exhibition serves as a narrative of joy through resistance. By weaving together floral motifs, the cultural symbolism of lace, and the rhythmic presence of musical instruments, Ilori explores the defiance required to push back against racial discrimination and societal barriers - ultimately celebrating the power of transforming hardship into communal strength and uplift.

New paintings, prints, sculpture, are accompanied by an immersive sound installation, a collaboration with composers and musicians Peter Adjaye and James William Blades.

Joy Through Resistance: He Who Laughs Last, Laughs Best is Ilori’s first solo exhibition at Cristea Roberts Gallery since joining the gallery in 2023. This immersive site of storytelling invites the public to explore the intersection of resilience and joy through Ilori’s unique artistic lens.

Contact us for all artwork enquiries.

Download the press release

“This exhibition is my most personal to date - a reflection of my own story and the resilience of the diaspora. By layering the Nigerian yellow trumpet and the British daffodil over ornamental lace, I’m exploring how we transform hardship into strength.

These works are about more than just beauty, they are about the ‘quiet resistance’ found in our traditions and our ability to blossom consistently, even in the face of struggle. I am incredibly proud to debut this journey with Cristea Roberts Gallery in London and invite the community to experience this space of joy and power.”

- Yinka Ilori