Marcus Akinlana

MARCUS ṢÀNGÓDOYIN AKINLANA is a visual artist, musician and Olòrìṣà. He co-owns GALLERY AKINLANA with his wife FATU AKINLANA. Arts, Music, Drumming and culture have been his joy for over 40 years and he has developed this passion through dedication and hard work. He participates with other Artists/Musicians in cultural events in New Orleans and beyond. After founding two visual art companies, POSITIVE CREATIONS and WON MURAL SOCIETY in the 1980s, AKINLANA became known internationally for public art, murals and fine arts. Circa 2003 he also cofounded ILE ẸKỌ ÀṢÀ YORÙBÁ Ni NEW ORLEANS with YÈYÉ FATU ỌMỌLEYE AKINLANA, a study institute for traditional African culture and spirituality serving the public. In 2012, Akinlana also founded AVALANCHE JA SELF DEFENSE and COMBAT SCHOOL, a martial arts training academy. In addition, Akinlana is a professional drummer, vocalist and song writer who now combines his visual arts with music.

Photo Credit: Marcus Akinlana