Doba Afolabi was born in the mountains of southwest Nigeria and credits his mother who was a versatile dancer as the fundamental force behind his flair for expressions. Monet, Van Gogh Degas and Yoruba stylized carvings were later influences while he studied at the University catching with the spirit of the Zaria art avant garde tagged the 'Zaria Rebels' style of the famous Zaria art school where he graduated.
Doba worked as a graphic artist with the British overseas development of the UN and taught at Yaba College of technology in Lagos Nigeria prior to moving to New York, where he now resides. His success at several exhibitions in New York propelled his momentum, which has led to national and international recognition. His 'Women's Day' won a regional poster project with the WHO and it was placed at several centers around the country and beyond. Doba who has been 'weaving colors' (according to his words) since 1982 has produced works that have been eagerly collected by scholars and other private collectors who see their universality and portraits of captivating creativity. He loves dynamism; and his works are very fragmental and windy. His style falls between impression and sporadic stylization.