Farouk 858
Redefining Irish creativity through heritage, innovation and identity
Blending cutting edge tech with a passion for purpose, Farouk Alao, better known as Farouk 858, is a visionary Irish creative whose work has spanned the Tate Britain, the Guinness Storehouse and the Irish Museum of Modern Art.
Now based in London, we visited Farouk at his artistic residency at Art’otel Hoxton to hear more about Studio 858 and how heritage, innovation and identity come together in his work.
When I started out making art, I wanted to show other people who look like me and who come from a similar background that they can achieve these things. I was first generation so I didn’t have anyone to look up to.
Standing next to his first painting completed at his Hoxton residency, a stunning pink portrait that bursts from a black canvas, Farouk spoke about his journey as an artist and the opportunities he has had across Ireland and Britain.
He is clearly proud of his work, particularly in his outreach that seeks to inspire and level the playing field for first-generation Irish artists. He is also creating accessible opportunities for creative exploration through his recently launched art club, the 858 Art Club.
Hear more about his work and his journey in our full interview with Farouk.
Keep up to date with his work at @Farouk858 on Instagram.