“I was born with art,” he quips, as we settle in for the conversation. A broad smile plastered across his face as we flicker through visual memories of his Casmir With Love exhibition, a fashion, painting and music showcase that was held recently at a private location in Lekki, Lagos.

Over the years, Casimir Hero has carved a solid reputation as one of the leading Nigerian streetwear designers and business, with his streak of avant-garde unisex collections.

His Casimir, With Love collection reflected his spiritual idealism— with some the sacred heart of Jesus crest, neatly morphed into a unique shape that carries his logo — and his witty social commentaries, colorfully captured in his tees bearing Naira notes and inscriptions such as “Men I Trust” and “Bringer or Destroyer of Peace”, among others. Other riveting pieces on showcase included beanies, jackets, and trousers.

Catching up with Guardian Arts, the young creative entrepreneur spills the tea on his inspiration behind the exhibition, as well as his mission to create clothes that spread happiness with every yarn, cut and stitch.

How did you find yourself in fashion?
Well all I can say is I was born with art and fashion, I’ve always loved clothes for as long as I can remember

What inspired the exhibition?
Casimir with love, was originally inspired by my ‘flight 420’ shirts and also my limited edition hand-painted pants. However, to be fair I’ve always wanted to have an art and fashion inspired exhibition for the longest time, so when I had the chance I took it!

Describe the type of pieces that were showcased?
So, I showcased some of my rare pieces from both my old and new collection, like my first hand painted target beanie and first fast life jacket, hand painted trousers collection, my first proper hand painted canvas featuring one of my many trips on water and also my digital paintings like beautiful flaws, stripper peace and Christ the hero some was worn and exhibited by models and others just hung for people to see and admire.

Who else exhibited or performed?
So it was my first solo art exhibition and it was just me exhibiting. However, I also happen to manage one of the dopest trap artists from Nigeria who can be found on social media @erigothi. We had him and many other dope artistes like jaypoppinx, tribe boys and prvdagod perform their hits to the teeming crowd.

What do you want people to experience from your brand, Hero?
I want them to feel loved. Casimir Hero as a brand and person is all about love, because I grew up in a city where there are no good role models or people you could tell your parent you were trying to be like I decided to make myself one for the kids and generations to come, so they can also tell their parents and guardians one day that casimir hero made it out pursuing his love for art and fashion so I too can make it too someday!!