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- INSIDE THE MAD MAFIA: MEET AKHIGBE
INSIDE THE MAD MAFIA: MEET AKHIGBE
From Lagos, Nigeria to the pages of the Mad Mafia
Josh Hernandez
October 27, 2025
Even when the page is blank, creativity never stops
Born and raised in Edo State, Nigeria, and now living in Lagos, Akhigbe Richard draws inspiration from people in the way they feel, react, and express what life throws their way.
Before every piece, he sits quietly in front of a blank sheet, letting the silence build pressure until creativity finally spills out.
Even when the spark fades, he finds his fire again by studying other artists, and one mentor stands out above the rest.
“Mad Charcoal is my biggest inspiration and a mentor to me. His art and creativity process has always sparked a passion inside of me.”
His favorite tool? The Mad Willow Charcoal, raw, forgiving, and expressive, just like his work.
 “Oblivion” |  “Unbound” |
 “Struggle For Freedom” |  “Untitled” |
From the streets of Lagos to the pages of the MAD Mafia, Akhigbe reminds us that creativity doesn’t stop, it just waits for you to start.
See more from @souldbusta_art
Want to be featured like Akhigbe? Join the movement! share your process and tag @madartmaterials or email us at [email protected] and show us what you’re building.
The MAD Essentials Charcoal Art Kit was built for exactly this, to smear, scrape, and sculpt until something real emerges. Make the sublime from the chaos. Make it yours.
Stay creative, stay savage,
- The MAD Team