Modus Vivendii: Keep Pushing, Keep Creating

Modus Vivendii is a streetwear label and creative collective based between London and Lagos. Modus Vivendii was established in 2011 by Ola Badiru, Jimmy Ayeni and Anthony Oye, Modus Vivendii. With its early roots as a fashion blog charting well-dressed Lagosians, Modus Vivendii has since expanded into a recognised clothing brand, as well as a DJ collective, performing as Vivendii Sound at events around the world. They have collaborated with Nike, Diesel and Off-White, and performed at Homecoming in 2019.

Here Jimmy Ayeni tells us why Lagos is so exciting.

Describe your creative journey and how you got to where you are today?
My journey started as a kid when I obsessed over all the clothes I would pick to where and always jumping infront of a camera to strike a pose. From there it grew to my love of music, art and film in my formative years. At 18 I started a blog with my friends to document my lifestyle and all the things we were interested in, like graphics, art, streetwear, design etc. This lead to us starting the brand Vivendii which allowed us to express ourselves creatively. I was able to really get into the design of clothing, graphic, art installations and this resulted in bringing a lot of people together. Resulting in a lifestyle movement created surrounding the brand allowing us to venture into music and being an mc to Vivendii Sound.

What is the most defining moment in your career?
When I met Roberto Cavalli and got featured in Vogue Italia 2012.

Who has had the biggest impact on you and why?
My team. We push each other forward every step of the way.

Where and to whom do you look for inspiration?
Where I come from. I feel like understanding yourself comes with self-reflection. Also the people around me; friends, family and strangers on the street.

What advice would you give to someone starting out in the industry today?
Nobody cares so keep pushing yourself to learn, keep creating, keep fighting and enjoy the bloody journey.

What fuels Lagos’ creative energy?
Frustration. The youth rebelling against old traditional systems that hold them back.

If you were to show the ‘best of Lagos’ to someone who has never been, what would the day look like?
One thing I love to show people are the markets particularly clothing and fabric. The vibrant energy and interactions with locals bring you closer to the heart of the city. Beach culture in Lagos is huge so a trip to Tarkwa Bay or Ilashe beach is key, a special mention is required for the masses of locals evicted from their homes in Tarkwa Bay by the government recently. You already know we gotta hit the club, Lagos night life is crazy!

What can the world learn from Nigeria?
I’m not sure what the world can learn from Nigeria but something they can learn from Nigerians is a spirit of thriving when all odds are against them.