+234 Art Fair to boost creative sector, empower artists – Organisers
By Taiye Olayemi
The +234 Art Fair is set to create a supportive ecosystem for emerging Nigerian artists, foster patronage to elevate their careers and strengthen the creative industry.
Its founder, Ms Tola Akerele, while speaking with newsmen in Lagos on Wednesday, said that the fair would provide vital platform for artists, particularly those in remote areas and without gallery representation.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the fair, which will showcase the works of 260 artists, is organised in partnership with Ecobank Nigeria and Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), among other sponsors.
The theme of the fair is, “Championing Patronage in Nigerian Art”, and will take place at the Ecobank Pan African Centre (EPAC) in Lagos.
“Our core mission is to nurture and empower young artists. We must ask: how can we, as patrons, create a supportive environment.
“How do we inspire the next generation and build an ecosystem that truly promotes their growth.
Akerele noted that the fair would feature four pavilions showcasing 2D art, 3D sculptures, photography, digital art and children’s art with focus on the theme of patronage.
This, she explained, is to ensure that the artists thrive in the art market and contribute to the Nigerian economy, noting that patronage extends beyond financial transactions.
“Support can take many forms: mentorship, providing workspace, financial advice, or connecting artists with reputable galleries.
“We are creating a platform for sales, but also for sustainable career development,” she added.
Recognising the importance of engaging the youth, Akerele noted that the fair included a dedicated children’s gallery that would encourage early appreciation of art and encourage artistic aspirations.
She said, “We need to show young people that a career in art is viable.”
Ms Omoboye Odu, Head SME, Partnerships and Collaboration, Ecobank Nigeria Ltd., highlighted the bank’s commitment to supporting the creative industry as a key driver of economic growth.
Odu said, “Ecobank recognises the creative industry as an essential driver of economic growth, well-being, and global connectivity.
“Our medium-term objective is to become the primary gateway for pan-African trade facilitation, and supporting initiatives like +234Art is integral to that vision.
According to her, AFC is bringing its expertise in infrastructure investment and has invested 13 billion dollars across Africa, driving sustainable economic growth through strategic partnerships.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa
Published By
Has also recently published
General NewsMarch 30, 2025Tinubu urges love, charity to vulnerable 
General NewsMarch 30, 2025Tinubu, Saint Kitts and Nevis PM seek stronger economic ties
General NewsMarch 30, 2025I nearly quit 2023 presidential race, says Tinubu
Economy/BusinessMarch 29, 2025GTCO Plc records N1.266trn pre-tax profit in 2024
