MASTERCLASSES

&

WORKSHOPS

For the +234 art fair, we present a robust series of masterclasses and workshops geared towards emerging artists and other players in the arts ecosystem. Our starting point was the consideration of the different elements that are needed for a successful artists’ career and we then developed a programme that would provide information and insight into these important facets.

For many artists, the sale of artwork is an important marker of success. However, there are other aspects that are important for the development of an artistic career and that can also lead to financial success. These include space to experiment with their practice through residences, and participating in museum shows and biennials which can build their reputation as an artist. We explore these topics and also look at the role galleries can play in artist development beyond providing a platform for sales.

As African art continues to make strides in the global art market, we discuss what this means for emerging Nigerian artists and what pathways they can take to build an international career. We also shine a spotlight on photography and sculpture as two important fields that sometimes face challenges finding their place within the Nigerian art world.

In addition to sessions directly related to artistic practice, the workshops also engage with the theme of the fair ‘ A New Heritage’, which seeks to connect Nigerian art through the centuries to where we are today, building on the work of pioneers who have shaped Nigerian art and celebrating emerging Nigerian artists who continue to create for the enrichment of our society.

We invite you to join us in this dynamic space, where we will explore these ideas with the art community. We look forward to lively debates, insightful questions, new ideas, and perhaps even some answers as we work towards creating an arts sector where all artists can thrive.

8 Masterclasses/Panel Discussions

Register for free to attend the Master classes

African Art in the Global Art Market

Saturday, March 23rd 

2pm

Presented by Florence Lynch, Senior Director of Marc Straus Gallery, New York, USA

There has been a boom in interest in contemporary African art in recent years, as African artists continue to break sales records at auctions, and African art fairs and biennales gain more importance on the global art scene. Florence Lynch from Marc Straus Gallery in New York explores this phenomenon, providing insights into the international landscape for African art and delving into collector’s interests and evolving trends.

Lynch will also share valuable perspectives on how young artists can cultivate international attention for their work. The keynote prompts critical questions, such as, ‘When African art transcends its origins, how is it received?’ and ‘What strategies foster and sustain enduring global interest in this rich artistic tradition?’ Uncover the dynamics shaping the relationship between African art and international consumers in this thought-provoking talk.

Florence Lynch is a New York-based art dealer. She is a Senior Director at MARC STRAUS. Former positions include Director of Sales and Public Relations at Elizabeth Dee, New York. She Co-owned LYNCH THAM, a contemporary art gallery formerly on the Lower East Side, established in 2013.

Lynch is also the founder of Florence Lynch Gallery, a contemporary art gallery of international standing previously located in New York’s Chelsea gallery district. Lynch has over 20 years of art world experience and has worked as an independent curator, critic, and lecturer.

Lynch has interviewed and written on the works of Quinton Tarantino, David Lynch, Jenny Holzer, David Hammons, Nan Goldin, and Robert Longo, among others. Lynch is an Adjunct Professor at Teachers College Columbia University where she teaches in the ARAD Master’s Program Principles and Practices in the Visual Arts; and in the School of Graduate Studies at the Fashion Institute of Technology State University of New York where she teaches on the art market.  

Through the Lens: Navigating the Art and Business of Photography

Saturday, March 23rd 

4pm

Moderated by Aisha Augie

In this photographer’s roundtable, we will delve into the diverse segments of the creative industry that photography encompasses, including fine art, editorials, portraits, and event photography. Experienced photographers will share insights into their practices, discussing how they navigate client relationships and build successful careers in both Nigeria and Benin. Join us for a rich discussion on the art and business of photography.

Panelists include:

  • Alain Ngann
  • Kelechi Amadi Obi
  • Kola Oshalusi
  • Ugochukwu Emebiriodo

Alain is a photographer artist. Attentive to his environment, sensitive to his heritage, he initially evolved within the advertising sector. Passionate self-taught, he began his artistic actions by interpreting campaigns in an original way. With his series, he invites us to feel, to immerse ourselves in the heart of plural realities, reconciling in his own way, beauty and harmony, United diversity.

His roots, fundamental inspiration, guide his creative process, revealing the rich historical heritage of Cameroon. His photography is a resurgence, nourished by memories, reflections, emotions, and pride in his civilization. Intolerant of indifference, the artist approaches photography as one of the dignified and humanist ways of expressing, sharing, awakening consciences, reviving spirits. Alain develops a sophisticated aesthetic, freed from stereotypes, to display Cameroonian history with brilliance and relevance. His work is exhibited both in Cameroon and abroad, in Douala, Paris, Bologna, among other places.

Kelechi Amadi-Obi is a Nigerian creative photographer, painter, artist, and the publisher of Mania Magazine. His work in photography and visual art has earned him international renown featuring in many international exhibitions including Snap Judgment: New Position in Contemporary African Photography, International centre of Photography New York (2006).

He has been described as one of Nigeria’s groundbreaking celebrity photographers who has “helped put Nigerian photography on the world map.”. Vogue calls him “a major force in the creative scene in Nigeria.” 

Kola Oshalusi is a creative photographer with an eye for details and documenting moments. Based in Lagos, Nigeria, he currently holds the position of Director of Creative at Insigna Media, a leading photography and content creation company.

Insigna Media is positioned to add value and build Africa’s largest content creation company. Over the past 13 years, Kola Oshalusi has made a name for himself in the industry, establishing a recognized brand. His work captures the essence of life, culture, and beauty, making him a prominent figure in the world of photography.  

Ugochukwu Emebiriodo, a Lagos-based curator and photographer, graduated in English and Literary Studies from the University of Port Harcourt in 2015. He interned at the African Artists’ Foundation in Lagos, later becoming a Junior Curator before leaving in 2020 to focus on photography. During his time at the foundation, he managed Maker’s Lab, an exhibition for emerging artists. His photography has been featured on Northern Monk’s cover and exhibited at the 2020 Art X art fair. Additionally, his work has been published in Vice UK, Irin Journal, Lost in Lagos, Kalahari Review, Ladygunn, Random Photo Journal, and Culture Custodian.

Augie-Kuta is a graduate of Mass Communication from Ahmadu Bello University Zaria. Her academic pursuits are complemented by certifications in digital filmmaking from the New York Film Academy and curating contemporary art exhibitions from the Chelsea College of Arts, London, UK. Beyond her individual pursuits, Augie-Kuta actively contributes to the creative community. She became an Associate for the Nigeria Leadership Initiative (NLI) in May 2011 and serves as the vice-president of Women in Film and Television in Nigeria (WIFTIN), the West African chapter of the US-based
network.

In 2009, she co-founded the Photowagon, a collective dedicated to promoting Nigerian photography. Augie-Kuta’s journey extends beyond the arts. She participated in the 50@50 celebrations in 2010, a commemoration of 50 Nigerian women, supported by the Women for Change Initiative. In 2014, she showcased her artistic prowess with her first solo photographic exhibition, titled “Alternative Evil.”

Bridging Time: Connecting Heritage and Modernity in Nigerian Art

Sunday, March 24th

2pm

Moderated by Ebun Ikenze

From ancient wooden and bronze sculptures to vibrant masquerades, the rich tapestry of Nigerian heritage is woven into the visual and performance art traditions. This enduring legacy resonates strongly in the contemporary art scene, a testament to the resilience and evolution of cultural expression in Nigeria.

Join us as we bridge the gap between tradition and modern artistic forms, delving into the intricate connections that shape the vibrant cultural landscape. The panel aims to uncover valuable lessons from the past, offering insights that can profoundly impact and inspire artistic practices today. The speakers will engage in a dialogue that celebrates the fusion of tradition and innovation, fostering a deeper understanding of the roots that ground Nigeria’s artistic identity.

Panelists include:

  • Seun Oduwole
  • Jess Castellote
  • Oluwatoyin Sogbesan

Seun is an urbanist, architect, and designer with 22 years of experience across 3 continents, delivering groundbreaking cultural, commercial, retail, urban regeneration, and immersive design projects.

A graduate of the University of Nottingham, he possesses a unique and idealistic approach to design and is always looking to push the boundaries of design interaction and perception.  

Dr. Jess Castellote is the Director of the Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art. He combines his professional work with an intense involvement in several not-for-profit organizations, promoting development and educational projects in the country.

He holds a master’s degree in architecture (UPV, Valencia) and one in Art History (UNED, Madrid). Over the years, he has been a keen observer of the Nigerian art scene. 

Oluwatoyin Sogbesan is an architect, a cultural historian, art and heritage specialist. She is the president of the ICOMOS Nigeria – International Council on Monuments and Sites. Dr. Sogbesan is the founder and director at Àsà Heritage Africa Foundation, a non-governmental organization focused on heritage identification, documentation, and preservation.

She holds a Doctorate in Culture, Policy, and Management from City University London and an MA in Arts and Heritage Management from London Metropolitan University. Oluwatoyin is a member of numerous professional organizations including the International Council of Museums (ICOM), Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA), Art Council of the African Studies Association (ACASA), and the Architecture and Urbanism Research Hub domiciled at the University of Lagos. She is an African Museology fellow at the Smithsonian Institute.

Two decades of experience spanning the built environment, art, and heritage sectors enable her to interrogate culture and identity from a wider perspective. She is a consultant for the European Union Institute for Culture (EUNIC-Nigeria Cluster) on Museums. 

Ebun Ikenze is a highly respected art advocate and consultant with a deep passion for promoting the arts and supporting artists in their professional journeys. With a diverse range of experiences in the art industry, Ebun has become a leading figure in the facilitation of artist talks and panel discussions, primarily focused on the business of art. As an advisory board member for the esteemed Nlele Photography Institute, Ebun plays a pivotal role in shaping the direction and strategies of the organization.

How to Navigate the International Art Scene as a Local Artist

Sunday, March 24th 

4pm

Moderated by Lola Ogunnaike

The +234 Art Fair highlights the work of Ozioma Onuilke in this conversation where we delve into his profound artistic journey, exploring the themes that fuel his practice and the diverse materials that have shaped his creations. Coming from the legacy of the Nsukka School, Onuzulike will share insights into how experimentation is ingrained in his artistic ethos. Joining the conversation is Florence Lynch, from the Marc Straus Gallery which represents Onuzulike, who will speak on the evolution of Onuzulike’s international art career.

Beyond retrospective exploration, this panel provides a unique opportunity for young and emerging artists to receive advice and learn best practices from a successful established artist. This conversation will serve as a beacon for emerging talents navigating the ever-changing world of global contemporary art.

Panelists include:

  • Ozioma Onuzulike
  • Florence Lynch

b. 1972: Onuzulike is a ceramics artist, poet, and historian of African art and design. He graduated First Class in Fine and Applied Arts and holds an MFA degree in ceramic art and a PhD in Art History from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, where he is a professor and current Director of the Institute of African Studies.

His recent international exhibitions include Ozioma Onuzulike: Recent Works at Marc Straus Gallery in New York; Free the Wind, The Spirit, and The Sun at Stephen Friedman Gallery in London, and Ozioma Onuzulike: When Hearts Beat with Lofty Dreams at the Afrikaris in Paris. 

Florence Lynch is a New York-based art dealer. She is a Senior Director at MARC STRAUS. Former positions include Director of Sales and Public Relations at Elizabeth Dee, New York. She Co-owned LYNCH THAM, a contemporary art gallery formerly on the Lower East Side, established in 2013.

Lynch is also the founder of Florence Lynch Gallery, a contemporary art gallery of international standing previously located in New York’s Chelsea gallery district. Lynch has over 20 years of art world experience and has worked as an independent curator, critic, and lecturer.

Lynch has interviewed and written on the works of Quinton Tarantino, David Lynch, Jenny Holzer, David Hammons, Nan Goldin, and Robert Longo, among others. Lynch is an Adjunct Professor at Teachers College Columbia University where she teaches in the ARAD Master’s Program Principles and Practices in the Visual Arts; and in the School of Graduate Studies at the Fashion Institute of Technology State University of New York where she teaches on the art market.  

Lola Ogunnaike is a Nigerian American journalist, writer, and media personality known for her work in both print and television journalism. She has worked for reputable outlets such as The New York Times, CNN, and MSNBC, where she covered entertainment, culture, and lifestyle stories. Ogunnaike is recognized for her insightful interviews with celebrities and for bringing an engaging and knowledgeable perspective to her reporting.

Residency Reboot: Taking Time to Deepen Your Artistic Practice

Saturday, March 30th

2pm

Moderated by Ugonna Ibe

Art residencies can have a transformative impact and play a pivotal role in shaping the careers of contemporary artists. In this panel, we delve into the significance of residencies as invaluable spaces for experimentation, research, and the cultivation of innovative ideas. Our distinguished panelists include organizers from both local and international residencies, each sharing their unique perspectives on the benefits of art residencies.

From providing a platform for creative experimentation to fostering cross-cultural collaborations, these residencies play a pivotal role in nurturing emerging talent. They also demystify the application process and the expectations of during these experiences that lead to a more enriched and innovative artistic landscape in Nigeria and diasporic communities. Join us for a captivating exploration into the profound impact of art residencies on the creative spirit.

 Panelists include:

  • Nadine Siegert
  • Tony Agbapuwonwu
  • Aderinola Ajao
  • Moni Oloke

Nadine Siegert is the director of the Goethe-Institut Nigeria and was formerly head of culture and development at the Goethe-Institut South Africa. Between 2011 and 2019, she was the Deputy Director of Iwalewahaus, University of Bayreuth. She is also the co-founder of Iwalebooks, a publishing house for books on art, discourse, and archives.

Tony Agbapuonwu is a curator, writer, and strategy consultant. He founded Art Bridge Project, a community-based visual art organization and think tank for artists. Through his curatorial endeavors, he explores experiential and material poetics with commentary on social, cultural, and political history to amplify the transformative power of art and champion artists working with frontier techniques and new media.

Aderinsola Ajao is an arts manager with experience spanning the cultural and creative industries. She is currently the Programme Manager for West/Central Africa at the Johannesburg office of the Swiss Arts Council Pro Helvetia.  Aderinsola is also the founder and curator of Screen Out Loud, an independent cinema series organized in partnership with Alliance Française Lagos.

Moni is a natural observer of life who channels her genuine interest in human behaviour into every aspect of life including art.  Always one willing to delve into new experiences, she waltzed into the art scene in 2016 after working in various industries including health and fin-tech. 

Moni combines a keen interest in psychology, cultural analysis, storytelling, and art by finding an outlet for her creative expressions in the fast-paced Lagos art world. She is passionate about social justice, mental health, womanhood, and using art to tell stories.

Ugonna Ibe is a designer, curator and environmentalist. She is the founder of Yenwa Gallery, which showcases contemporary works of African & diaspora artists with a special focus on photography & new media. Ugonna Ibe most recently served as the Director of the Guild of Professional Fine Artists of Nigeria (GFA). She is the creative director of womenswear brand Cinnamon Lagos.

Transmitting Nigerian Heritage through Technique, Idea and Material in Sculpture

Saturday, March 30th 

4pm

Moderated by Arin Olowoporoku

This panel session will examine the evolving role of sculpture in preserving and transmitting Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage. We will discuss how sculptors use narrative and draw inspiration from traditional symbols, myths, and rituals to create artworks that reflect the country’s diverse cultural identities.

Additionally, we will explore both traditional and contemporary techniques in Nigerian sculptural art, highlighting the methods and materials used by sculptors throughout history and how these practices continue to influence contemporary sculptural practices.

Panelists include:

  • Yadichinma Ukoha-Kalu
  • Ugo Ahiakwo
  • Ato Arinze
  • Omoligho Udenta

Yadichinma Ukoha-Kalu is an experimental artist and illustrator based in Lagos. Her artistic practice centres around the exploration of line, form, space, and boundaries, expressed through a diverse range of media, including painting, drawing, sculpture, film, and technology.

Yadichinma consistently crafts multi-dimensional environments that blend abstract elements, textures, and materials to create engaging interactions. Her fascination with materials propels her to deepen her understanding of the objects in her surroundings. She holds the belief that each object possesses its own unique world and system.

This perspective is particularly pronounced in the realm of artefacts, where archival systems are generated through craft practices rooted in outdated cultures, particularly within the African context. Yadichinma’s work aims to bridge the gap between traditional methodologies and contemporary practices. By intertwining these elements, she seeks to explore the rich tapestry of cultural heritage and foster a dialogue that extends beyond temporal boundaries. 

Ugo Ahiakwo (born 1998) is a sculptor, curator and furniture designer. His works are neither limited by any medium nor inspiration, but they share common qualities: edginess, dynamism, tactility and a high level of refinement. He fuses his combined knowledge of art and design with his curiosities about the world at large and a yearning to create a much better future. Ugo’s artistic process involves listening to and negotiating with materials that he finds himself drawn to. “I believe everything has a voice and I strive to highlight the ones that strike a chord with me via my work” he says.

Ugo Ahiakwo studied fashion design in the Academy of Art University, San Francisco and School of the Arts Institute, Chicago between 2015 and 2018. He had his first solo exhibition “Sink or Swim” at Alliance Française de Lagos in 2023 and has also taken part in the group exhibitions: “Afterimages” by Rele gallery, Lagos in 2023, “Factory Reset: Continued” by Koenig Galerie, Berlin in 2023, “Reverie” by Dada gallery in Lagos in 2023, “Design Intersect at Soto” by Soto gallery, Lagos in 2022, “Are You Comfortable Now?” by A White Space Creative Agency, Lagos in 2021 and “Permission to Exhale” by Dada Gallery in Lagos, 2020.

He was also a recipient of the ART X reviews in 2020. His sculpture “REBIRTH: Alien Superstar” was featured in the Vicnate “N°4” fashion campaign in 2023 and his “Industrial Carcass” series featured in the Vicnate “N°2” fashion film for Lagos Fashion Week 2021, he created site specific sculptural furniture for the restaurant 22B, Lagos in 2022, he co-designed and co-curated the Lagos Fashion Week “Woven Threads” exhibition in 2022, co-designed the Tj Who fashion presentation for Lagos Fashion Week 2021 and he executed a commissioned sculpture for the Balmain x Chivas Regal launch party in Lagos, 2021.

Ato is an artist with special interest in Portraits Sculptures, and Statues. his grasp for forms, attest to his skills particularly in handling figural sculptures. He attended Yaba College of Technology, majoring in Sculpture. Ato has been a full-time studio artist since 1991, practicing as a Sculptor and a Potter.

He has participated in many group exhibitions within and outside Nigeria, with many sculpture commissions to his credit, such as the Bust of the first President of Nigeria Dr.Nnamdi Azikiwe which he executed in the year 2000, a collaborative project with Chike Oyeka at his studio in Onitsha. Recently his Statue of Chief Bode Akindele, The Parakoyi of Ibadan Land was commissioned and unveiled in June 2021.
He was a recipient of the Solidra Award for Sculpture and Pottery in 2002 and in 2008 was awarded the Society Nigerian Artists (Lagos State Chapter) Distinguished Artist Award.

Omoligho Udenta, born in 1968, is a Nigerian artist known for her paintings. Although there is currently no detailed biographical information available, her artistic work has left an impact in the world of art. Udenta’s creative expression through painting reflects her unique perspective and artistic vision.

Arin is a Creative Director and is the founder of two fashion brands; The Tye Dye Shop and Nola Black – which was the only Nigerian Brand to showcase a collection at the 2019 AFI CapeTown Fashion Week and was also one of three brands to deliver a fashion presentation at the 2019 GTBank Fashion Weekend. Arin also doubles as a Cultural Director and Art curator.

Arin was a project manager on the team that took Nigeria to its first-ever Venice Biennale in Italy 2017, known as the “Olympics of Art”. Educationally, Arin has had her fair share of reading and is a three-degree holder. She finished her bachelor’s degree in Cell Biology and Genetics at the age of 19 from the University of Lagos, she further went on to acquire a Post Graduate Diploma in Biotechnology from the Centennial College in Toronto Canada, and she eventually bagged a distinction and MSc in International Fashion business from Robert Gordon University in 2015.

Gallery Dynamics: Nurturing Artist Relationships for Success

Sunday, March 31st

2pm

Moderated by Blessing Azubuike

Art residencies can have a transformative impact and play a pivotal role in shaping the careers of contemporary artists. In this panel, we delve into the significance of residencies as invaluable spaces for experimentation, research, and the cultivation of innovative ideas. Our distinguished panelists include organizers from both local and international residencies, each sharing their unique perspectives on the benefits of art residencies.

From providing a platform for creative experimentation to fostering cross-cultural collaborations, these residencies play a pivotal role in nurturing emerging talent. They also demystify the application process and the expectations of during these experiences that lead to a more enriched and innovative artistic landscape in Nigeria and diasporic communities. Join us for a captivating exploration into the profound impact of art residencies on the creative spirit.

 Panelists include:

  • Obida Obioha
  • Ugonna Ibe
  • Jide Ogunsanya
  • Adenrele Sonariwo

Obida Obioha is a visionary product and interior designer based in Lagos, Nigeria. His design aesthetics are characterized by minimalism, which exudes a sense of magic and seamless wonder. As a Maker, he believes in crafting subtle, seamless magic through his creations. His work showcases contemporary art from Africa and its diaspora, and he is the founder of the Obida Shop and O’DA Art Gallery in Lagos.  

Ugonna Ibe is a designer, curator and environmentalist. She is the founder of Yenwa Gallery, which showcases contemporary works of African & diaspora artists with a special focus on photography & new media. Ugonna Ibe most recently served as the Director of the Guild of Professional Fine Artists of Nigeria (GFA). She is the creative director of womenswear brand Cinnamon Lagos. 

Olajide Ogunsanya is a Nigerian entrepreneur and curator. He is the founder and Director of AMG Projects a contemporary art gallery and project space based in Lagos, Nigeria. In its short period of existence, the gallery has quickly established itself as a champion for game changing emerging talent and programming.

Jide is also an avid art collector and patron who has devoted the last 25 years to supporting contemporary African artists. He is an alumnus of the university of Maryland university college and The New York institute of Technology. 

Blessing Azubuike is a seasoned arts and management professional with over 15 years experience in the creative industry, bringing a wealth of expertise in developing and executing impactful arts and culture programs, fostering creative communities, and driving economic growth through the creative economy. Currently serving as senior Programme Manager at CcHub, leading the
Creative Economy Practice in designing and implementing innovative programs that support the growth and development of Creative Economy in Africa. Azubike recently featured on the Artists’ Ladder Connect [TALK] residency program.

Beyond Gallery Walls: Navigating Biennales and Museums in contemporary Art

Sunday, March 31st 

4pm

Moderated by Ebun Ikenze

This panel explores the impact of participation in biennales and museum exhibitions on artistic practice, international exposure, and the cultivation of meaningful dialogue. These platforms play an important role in artistic visibility and are increasingly significant in shaping contemporary artists’ careers.

The speakers will discuss how these avenues not only provide creative freedom but also foster critical engagement, allowing artists to participate in global discourses and exhibit diverse perspectives. They will engage with the practical issues around accessing these opportunities, and their impact leading to a deeper understanding of the transformative power of biennales and museum exhibitions in the modern art world.

Panelists include:

  • Dolly Balogun
  • Chinyere Obieze
  • Logo Olumuyiwa

Dolly Kola-Balogun was born in Watford, United Kingdom. She is the Founder and Creative Director of Retro Africa. With a degree from King’s College London, BA (Hons) in Politics, Religion and Society, in 2015 she launched a platform and gallery for contemporary art in Abuja. By 2019, with the opening of their new space, Retro Africa’s presence as a gallery of international repute and a pioneer in the Nigerian art scene had been cemented. 

Obieze Chinyere works at the intersection of technology, art, and literature as a tool to speculate and strive for a better future for Nigeria and Africa at large. She achieves this by designing pedagogical and participative programs concerning art, text, and theory for creatives across theatre, music, film, and contemporary art disciplines. 

Currently, she serves as the head of Library and Information at Goethe-Institut Nigeria, where she is exploring the library as a third space for critical thinking, community, and dialogue between academia and creative practices to facilitate the creation and diffusion of ideas and projects. 

Logo Oluwamuyiwa, a talented photographer born in 1990, has made significant contributions to the art world. His work has been featured at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) and beyond.

 

Ebun Ikenze is a highly respected art advocate and consultant with a deep passion for promoting the arts and supporting artists in their professional journeys. With a diverse range of experiences in the art industry, Ebun has become a leading figure in the facilitation of artist talks and panel discussions, primarily focused on the business of art. As an advisory board member for the esteemed Nlele Photography Institute, Ebun plays a pivotal role in shaping the direction and strategies of the organization.

4 Workshops

Register for free to attend the Workshops.

The Dew Wellness Workshop

Monday, March 25th 

1 – 3 pm

By Omon Anenih

Omon Anenih Mordi & the DEW Centre’s mission is to educate the public and inspire a vibrant wellness community through deliberate and intentional design of spaces, lifestyles and experiences.

Omon Anenih is the founder of the DEW Centre, a wellness centre based in Lagos that takes a wholistic approach to wellness of individuals in their personal and professional lives. She is a mental health advocate and an individual who passionately seeks to boost workplace productivity, social interaction, relaxation and ultimately all round wellness.

Hence her creation of the DEW Centre, the first co-located Interior Design consultancy, education platform and Wellness Centre in Africa. Bringing the best of all worlds into one magnificent location. Omon is an award winning international interior designer, has been featured in British vogue and Country and Town house magazine, UK. Omon is a life member of Wimbiz, and has led as President of the Interior Designers Association of Nigeria, she currently sits on the Boards of various SMEs and non profit organisations.

Artistic Research

Tuesday, March 26th 

10 am – 3 pm

By Ugonna Ibe

Ugonna Ibe will lead a session that provides actionable steps and perspectives on seamlessly integrating research into artistic practice. Discover how artists can effectively integrate concepts and theories into their work, gaining valuable insights for a more informed and enriched creative process. This session explores the tangible benefits of incorporating research,
offering practical guidance to artists seeking to deepen the conceptual underpinnings of their artistic endeavours.

Ugonna Ibe is a designer, curator and environmentalist. She is the founder of Yenwa Gallery, which showcases contemporary works of African & diaspora artists with a special focus on photography & new media. Ugonna Ibe most recently served as the Director of the Guild of Professional Fine Artists of Nigeria (GFA). She is the creative director of womenswear brand Cinnamon Lagos. 

Grant Writing

Thursday, March 28th 

10 am – 3 pm

Join Nadine Siegert, director of Goethe Institute Nigeria, in a focused session on effective grant writing for residencies and projects. Gain practical insights as the session delves into the intricacies of crafting compelling artistic statements, project plans and budgets tailored for successful applications.

Siegert’s expertise will provide valuable tips and guidelines, equipping participants with the necessary tools to navigate the grant application process seamlessly. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your skills in articulating your artistic vision and effectively communicating your project’s feasibility through a well-crafted application.

Nadine Siegert is the director of the Goethe-Institut Nigeria and was formerly head of culture and development at the Goethe-Institut South Africa. Between 2011 and 2019, she was the Deputy Director of Iwalewahaus, University of Bayreuth. She is also the co-founder of Iwalebooks, a publishing house for books on art, discourse, and archives.

New Frontiers in Artistic Technologies

Friday, March 29th 

1 – 5 pm

In this workshop, Malik Afegbua will showcase the innovative technologies he incorporates into his practice, such as VR and AI and the new pathways that these techonologies have opened for him. There is much debate on the use of Ai tools – do they enhance creativity or diminish it, and how can artists maintain their artistic integrity while using them? Additionally, VR offers exciting possibilities for merging technology and art, providing immersive experiences. Malik will not only present these technologies but also provide tips for attendees on how they can be beneficial for their own artistic endeavors. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the intersection of art and technology!

Malik Afegbua, a Nigerian-born contemporary artist, VR curator, and film director, captivates audiences through immersive experiences across diverse media. A graduate of the University of Surrey, UK, he leads Slickcity Media, a powerhouse media company encompassing film/TV production, documentaries, VR, commercials, corporate videos, visual marketing, media technology, and publishing.

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