President Society of Nigerian Artists (SNA), Muhammad Sulaiman has called on stakeholders to harness the power of visual arts to drive positive change and boost creativity in the sector.
Suleiman made the call at the awards night of International Convention on Arts and Development (CONADEV) on Thursday in Abuja.
He said the 2023 annual CONADEV with the theme: “Refocusing the Art Through Theory and Practice Towards Nation Building” was aimed at highlighting the current landscape of art in a rapidly changing world.
According to him, as the nation navigates the complexities of the digital era, grappling with issues of inclusivity and addressing the challenges of society, it is imperative to harness the power of arts.
Sulaiman added that the theme underscored the need for a paradigm shift in the theory and practice of visual arts in Nigeria in order to achieve national development.
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“This convention will serve as a platform for multi-disciplinary dialogue, critical reflection and practical workshop that will equip us to face these challenges head-on.
“It also offers a unique opportunity to witness firsthand the creative spirit of Nigeria’s cultural performance.
“Exhibition and gallery visit will provide a glimpse into the dynamic, collaborative and evolving Nigerian art scene,” he said.
Mohammad further said with this event, Nigeria’s vibrant artistic community would not only be showcased, but also open doors for collaboration and exchange of ideas with international counterparts.
“Nigeria, with its rich history, cultural heritage and artistic traditions, provides the ideal backdrop for the convention.
“Our country has long been the cradle of creativity, producing exceptional artistic talents that have left an indelible mark on the global art scene,” he added.
The SNA boss commended National Gallery of Arts (NGA), Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC), National Council for Arts and Culture; embassies of Spain, China, United States for supporting arts in Nigeria.
Speaking at the event, Mr John Asein, Director-General of NCC, urged relevant stakeholders to focus on arts in order to achieve the desired results in the practice of arts for nation building.
According to him, it is not an individual race because building the nation through art has to do with synergy.
“NCC is committed to making a difference, I want to apologize to this industry for not doing much as expected.
“We intend to work with SNA president, as well as engaging students of visual arts in tertiary institutions where art is being taught, in order for them to be creative and fill the world with visual arts,” he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Mr Bruce Onobrkapeya, one of the founders of SNA, was honored with the ‘Lord of the Arts’ accolade.
Some of the personalities that were also recognized with awards included Ireti Kingibe, the lawmaker and Akachi Adimora Ezeigbo.
Nyaudo Ndaeyo, John Asein, Abiodun Oluwole Olutayo, Oji Onoko and Abba I. Tijjani were presented with honorary fellowship awards.
Sunday Enessi Ododo, Simon Ikpakronyi who were presented with distinguished service award, Ocheche Agbo, Sunkanthy Egharevba, and Tijani Iyabo Khadijah received fellowship awards, among others.
Sulaiman described the awardees as “worthy Nigerians who have contributed meaningfully to the growth and development of visual arts in Nigeria.”
Report says that SNA is the professional body for all practicing visual artists in Nigeria.
It is the umbrella body for all Nigerian professional visual artists, art groups and associations in Nigeria.
NAN