Visual artist Oluwole Omofemi has drawn international attention following the unveiling of a portrait of Prince William.
The painting, commissioned by Tatler magazine, will appear on its June 2026 cover, presenting the Prince of Wales as a “king-in-waiting” amid renewed global focus on the future of the British monarchy.
Rendered in a bold palette, the prince is depicted in a navy suit set against a vivid yellow background.
Speaking to the magazine, published by Condé Nast, Omofemi said the work was conceived to challenge how public figures are perceived.
“The timing felt right because we are in a moment where public figures are constantly seen, but not always deeply observed. I wanted to make a portrait that invites people to look again,” he said.
The piece builds on the artist’s growing international profile, following his 2022 commissioned portrait of Queen Elizabeth II created to mark the Platinum Jubilee of Elizabeth II.
According to Omofemi, both portraits share thematic links but differ in tone and intent. A subtle motif in the new work is the faint depiction of St Edward’s Crown, traditionally used during British coronations, symbolising inheritance and a future yet to be fully realised.
Executed in oil on canvas, the portrait reflects his layered technique, combining textured brushwork with symbolic elements. It also incorporates patterns inspired by African textile traditions, bridging British royal imagery with African cultural identity.
The dominant yellow tone, which featured in his earlier royal portrait, serves as a visual thread linking past and present, reinforcing continuity within transformation.
Omofemi said the creative process involved extensive research, including studying multiple photographic references sourced online to capture the prince’s likeness and psychological depth.
Prince William, formally the Prince of Wales, is the eldest son of King Charles III and the late Diana, Princess of Wales. He is first in line to the British throne. He is married to Catherine, Princess of Wales, and they have three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.
Following his father’s accession in 2022, he assumed the title of Prince of Wales and has taken on a prominent role in shaping the monarchy’s modern image, including his environmental work through the Earthshot Prize.
Omofemi, born and raised in Ibadan, gained prominence in the United Kingdom art scene after producing one of the final commissioned portraits of Queen Elizabeth II before her death in September 2022. His works are known for bold colour fields, expressive realism and the integration of African motifs into global narratives.
His paintings have been exhibited in galleries across London and have attracted collectors interested in contemporary African art. He has also been featured in international publications such as Tatler and other Condé Nast titles, further expanding his global reach.
He is currently hosting a residency programme at his studio in Ibadan, Oyo State, where he mentors emerging talents and contributes to the country’s growing contemporary art movement.
