IMG Models has signed artist and designer Yinka Ilori.
Born in London, Ilori is known for his vivid color palette in the world of design, creating objects, furniture, as well as structures and murals in public spaces. Utilizing West African textiles, inspired by his Nigerian roots, his works are often playful, with a message of inclusivity.
“I have always believed in the transformative power of storytelling through art and design,” said Ilori in a statement. “I am excited about this next chapter with IMG Models and hope together, we’re able to tell more stories and with a broader audience, to help bring communities together and evoke feelings of joy and optimism worldwide.”
Ilori is a graduate of London Metropolitan University, where he studied furniture and product design. He began upcycling second-hand furnishings. Today, his work has been shown globally through solo and group exhibitions, public commissions and set and exhibition design.
He founded his own design studio in 2015, representing architects and designers, while taking on larger-scale architectural and interior design projects. Clients have included companies Nike, Adidas, Pepsi and Lego, as well as England’s National Health Service Foundation Trust, creating works for hospitals. In 2020, he launched his homeware brand Yinka Ilori Objects, manufacturing and distributing his own goods. Products range from T-shirts, socks, towels and umbrellas to water bottles, prints and dining dishes.
He’s received the Emerging Design Medal by the London Design Festival and has been described as “one of 12 talents shaping the design world” by The New York Times Style Magazine.
Yinka Ilori
Courtesy Photo/Lewis Khan