Ollie Babajide Tikare (b.1997) is a multidisciplinary artist working across photography, writing, music curation, DJing and radio. His practice is deeply influenced by themes of identity, race, and community, yet he also explores the human form, street photography, and fashion with equal fervour. Having completed a BA in Philosophy and Politics and an MA in Documentary Photography, his visual work often features intimate and empowering portraiture alongside socio-political commentary and personal reflections.
Recent projects include: a collaborative zine, entitled ‘Reasonable Grounds’, which explores the intricate connection between racism and fashion. A family photo album, featuring photographs that he paired in search of similarities between his Nigerian and English families. A photoessay about a group of young Syrian and Palestinian refugees who are using cricket to combat past traumas faced by war and displacement.
Before becoming freelance he worked at a creative agency developing and executing creative visions for brands such as: Reebok, Dr.Martens, Nike and Dickies.
He is also an active DJ and musical host and regularly plays at venues across London. With a strong interest in African diasporic art, music and culture, he founded the radio show and club night ‘Don’t Touch My Fro!’ in 2019 and along side his old housemate Ben, oversees the project's creative direction, often organising and conducting photoshoots that serve as a backdrop for the event artwork as well curating line ups that showcase emerging artists.
Clients include: Nike, JD, Dickies, Ableton, Birkenstock and The Guardian
Education:
MA Documentary Photography and Photojournalism (Distinction) - UAL, London College of Communication (2022)
BA Philosophy and Politics (1st Class Hons) - University of Leeds (2020)
Writing:
‘Like an island separate from England’: Black joy at Glastonbury – photo essay, The Guardian, July 2024 - found here
Howzat?! Why cricket means freedom for exiled young Syrians – in pictures, The Guardian, December 2022 - found here
Exhibitions:
'Current Obsessions' - London College of Communication, November 2022
‘Once We Were Kids’ - Marko and Marko, London, December 2021
‘Pleasuredome’ - San Mai Gallery, London, August 2018
Prizes:
2024 - Winner + Shortlist, British Journal of Photography , Portrait of Humanity
Email: ollietikare@hotmail.com