The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to investing in the arts sector in Nigeria, aiming to support the growth and development of creative industries across the country.
The Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, disclosed this at the launch ceremony of EVVDEE Art Academy owned by Nigeria’s Guinness World Record holder for the Largest Drawing by an Individual, Dr Fola David, which was held recently in Lagos.
According to a statement, the academy aims to promote creative and artistic excellence and address key gaps in the nation’s art sector.
It said the academy will serve as a global artist community, offering a space to learn, connect, showcase work, exchange ideas, collaborate, access mentorship, and grow professionally.
Musawa expressed moves by the government to partner with the academy in a bid to produce more talent in arts.
She highlighted the skills gap in this field and commended David’s bold efforts to bridge it, aiming to strengthen Nigeria’s art market.
“We shall be leveraging this template to improve the art and creative sector by investing in talent skills development and avail them of necessary opportunities to become full-fledged artists”, she said.
Also, the Special Assistant to the President on Art, Culture and Creative Economy, Ayo Adeagbo, commended David’s step, stating that it reflects the commitment of the present administration to put Nigeria’s art on the global map.
Commenting on the Initiative, David explained that the idea stemmed from a noticeable disconnect among artists.
He noted that Evvdee’s setup fosters a family-like bond among learners and professionals in Nigeria and beyond.
David said, “Certain things are key for artists such as exhibition and sense of family bond, I feel these things are lacking which was a major challenge for me in my journey. These and many more are what we aim to address with this academy.
“In addition to training, we want to mitigate some of the social challenges faced by artists by bringing them together under one umbrella where they can meet once in three months to brainstorm on industry and trends as well as personal issues.”
Meanwhile, he added that the academy will offer art events, short-term courses, and masterclass sessions, with provisions also made for art exchange programmes and residency for those outside Lagos and Nigeria to be equipped with the knowledge and superior skills.
He said the training will be delivered by renowned art enthusiasts and accomplished academics, including Dotun Popoola, Ken Nwadiogbu, Oscar Nkonu, The Tobbinator, Ozuma Patrick, Mr Waduud and Abisola K Gbadamosi who is also the Academy Director, amongst others.
David disclosed further that the arrangement has been sealed with the National Gallery of Arts for exhibition opportunities and to invite visiting art lecturers from abroad as part of preparations for the academy opening in 2025.
“The academy will also be offering certification from the NGA for courses in painting, drawing, sculpture, photography, animation, digital art and design, amongst others,” he added.
