Malik Afegbua is a Nigerian filmmaker, artist, and creative technologist. He is widely recognized for his innovative use of AI technology in the arts.
In January 2023, he gained international media attention with his AI-generated art series titled "The Elder Series". The collection showcased elderly individuals walking a fashion runway, dressed in vibrant, stylish clothing. His work was celebrated for: - Challenging negative stereotypes about ageing - Portraying seniors in a dignified and fashionable light
While many praised the project, it also sparked debate about the implications of AI on creativity and traditional artistic expression.
Career
Malik began as an amateur photographer and visual artist around 2011, after receiving a Canon camera as a gift. This moment marked a pivot from his business school background into the world of art and media.
Early Endeavors
- Taught himself filmmaking
- Started producing videos, short films, and corporate content
- Founded Slickcity Media, through which he produced:
- Commercials
- Documentaries
- Virtual exhibitions
- For clients such as American Express and Meta
Recent Collaborations
Following his viral success, Malik’s clientele expanded to include: - Marvel Studios - IBM - Cadbury
The Elder Series
The Elder Series (also called Fashion Show for Seniors) was inspired by his mother’s health condition following a stroke. Malik envisioned a fashion show featuring elderly models in stunning outfits, using AI tools like: - Midjourney (text-to-image AI) - Adobe Photoshop (post-processing)
The project was not only aesthetically striking but also socially impactful.
Recognition
- World Health Organization (WHO): Praised the project as a contribution to the UN Decade of Healthy Ageing
- Ruth E. Carter (Oscar-winning costume designer): Called it “so dope” on Instagram
- Exhibited in:
- France
- Brazil
- United States
References
References not yet provided.