The Importance of Creative Flexibility: A Journey of Learning, Adaptability and Self-Discovery
Oscar Joyo is a Malawian-born, Chicago-based artist who mixes Afrofuturism and Afrosurrealism to honor the past, embrace the innovations of the present, and build a better future. Joyo is a painter, illustrator, digital artist, and muralist who created a mural for the African American Heritage Trail and has returned to Champaign to work with elementary students on telling stories through artmaking. He will share his journey from a curious child to a professional artist, grounded in his belief that learning is a constant cycle of adaptation, failure, and progression in the pursuit of creativity. Part of the MillerComm 2026 series.
Oscar Joyo’s mural is featured as part of the Champaign County African American Heritage Trail.
Hosted by the University of Illinois Art Education Program.
Artwork © Oscar Joyo.
Presented by the Center for Advanced Studies, Champaign County African American Heritage Trail, College of Education, Department of Dance, Department of History, Department of Human Development & Family Studies, Department of Theatre, Krannert Art Museum, Krannert Center for the Performing Arts, School of Art & Design, School of Art & Design Visitors Committee, Spurlock Museum, Stratton Academy of the Arts, Unit 4 Schools, and University YMCA.
