Ayopo Abiri is a Nigerian makeup artist and creative director who has gained a reputation for her edgy, editorial-style photographs. At just 21, she’s already internationally recognized for powerful, experimental beauty that challenges conventional notions of beauty. Her portfolio includes large-scale magazine editorials and music videos, each highlighting her fearless ingenuity.
Major Projects and Roles
Ayopo has done several high-profile projects for top creative publications and brands. She was beauty editor and makeup artist for:
T Magazine Fall issue
ID Magazine’s “Earthrise – FAMILY REUNION” feature
Vogue Italia’s “As The Spirit Moves Me” editorial
Grooming in videos for Rema, Zino, and Amaarae
She also contributed her makeup expertise to high-profile music videos, such as Ezra Collective and Royal Blood, which shows her range.
Feminine Expression and Queer Identity
Ayopo Abiri uses makeup as a means of self-expression and activism. During Pride Month, she creates bold, gender-fluid makeup looks to campaign for LGBTQ+ visibility in Nigeria. She is clear that her art is both political and personal.
Ayopo also speaks openly about her anxiety issues. She combats such challenges by having friends over to shoots as emotional support, allowing her to remain focused and creative.
Creative Style and Inspirations
Her make-up aesthetic draws on high-fashion, Afrofuturism, and Nollywood sensibilities. She regularly includes:
Overlined burgundy or brown lips with clear gloss
Bold, colour-saturated features that cannot be ignored
This signature blend of editorial sensibility and cultural touchpoint causes her to stand out in the Nigerian and global creative landscape.
Why Ayopo Matters
Ayopo Abiri’s work lifts experimental beauty in a country where creatives often face criticism or misunderstanding. Her editorial campaigns feature on global platforms and influence how makeup artists and directors approach visual storytelling. Her success shows that pushing creative envelopes can lead to cultural impact and artistic recognition.
Looking Ahead
With demand for her work on music videos, fashion shoots, and brand campaigns on the rise, Ayopo Abiri is set to reshape modern notions of beauty. She is a testament to the way that creativity, identity, and resilience can converge for impact.
Final Thought:
Ayopo Abiri shows us that makeup is not just about aesthetics—it’s about empowerment, social commentary, and individual liberty. Her uncompromising artistry offers a template for creative freedom in all its modes.