“Dr. Louis Markos was an esteemed professor for Femi Akande during his MFA term at Houston Christian University. He wrote: “Femi stands out as someone who has thought carefully about what art is, what it does, and how it affects people. He has a good knowledge of both aesthetic theory and philosophy and integrates that knowledge into his work. However, unlike many academics who tend to be abstract and remove, Femi seeks to touch people through his art on an emotional, spiritual, and visceral level. Best of all, Femi is a bridge between Africa and the West. He knows and loves his Nigerian culture well, while also understanding that which is best in the Western world. His message is not simplistic, but it does affirm love, hope, and peace. He has a message our world needs to hear.”
— Dr. Louis Markos, Professor in English, Scholar in Residence Houston Christian University, Texas, U.S.
“I have authored several scholarly articles on contemporary art in both national and international journals. Most recently, my article titled “Akande Femi Olajire’s Ceramic Art Works: An Epic of Appraisal” offers an in-depth analysis of Akande’s distinctive artistic style and his remarkable capacity to visualize complex philosophical concepts through ceramic-sculptural forms. Femi Akande’s work is a profound fusion of socio-political commentary, theological allegory, and philosophical inquiry. His artistic expressions transcend aesthetics to touch the human spirit, awakening deep emotional and spiritual responses. Employing a unique visual language that blends hyper-realism with symbolic text, numerals, and sculptural forms, Akande creates interactive and introspective experiences. His art consistently promotes love, a positive mindset, and spiritual growth—values essential for building a peaceful, unified, and culturally vibrant society. Akande’s work is both intellectually rigorous and emotionally intuitive. His rare ability to harmonize conceptual depth with accessible visual storytelling distinguishes him as a visionary in contemporary art and an essential voice in global cultural discourse.
— Dr. Daniel Olatunde Akanni, Nigerian Artist, Educationist, Researcher, and Writer. The Polytechnic, Ibadan, Nigeria