The Pop Art of Williams Chechet

by Oyin Olaniyan

Williams Chechet is a multi-talented visual artist. Born in Kano but raised in Kaduna, both in northern Nigeria, he studied industrial design at the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. His northern heritage is very evident in his recent series ‘We are the North’ – beautiful illustrations from northern Nigeria, influenced by pop art.

Chechet grew up drawing and painting but didn’t think he would pursue art as a profession. However, he continued to study the works of famous artists like Andy Warhol, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Kaus, Shepard Fairey, Ben Enwonwu and Lemi Ghariokwu.

At the university, Williams Chechet spent 9 years, instead of the usual 4 or 5 years, because he switched from building engineering to industrial design in his third year. While in school, he received a call from M.I. to design an album cover, which was the beginning of a relationship with Chocolate City Records as a resident freelance artist. The opportunity would later open many doors.

His creative process is largely spontaneous. Like many other artists, Chechet is often triggered by images, inspired by the world around him. Today, he has created a niche for himself as a pop artist, though, he doesn’t always have the appropriate tools or materials to work. Through his art, he shares fresh perspectives of Africa and reminds people of the importance of knowing their history.

Williams Chechet desires to explore other forms of artistic expression including sculpture and photography. He will be exhibiting later this year in Marrakech, Morocco.

Williams Chechet

Oyin Olaniyan

Oyindamola Olaniyan holds a B.sc in Botany from Lagos State University. Broadly experienced in this area, her core expertise includes social media management, content development and brand identity.

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