The Lagos art scene is definitely one for the books, it is rich and is an art enthusiast’s playground; Lagos as a whole is a leading voice in contemporary art in Nigeria and Africa as a whole and that in itself is no surprise.
In recent years, Lagos has become so pivotal in African heritage recognition, art festivals and a leader in celebrating the art pieces of indigenous artists.
The art galleries in Lagos are visual representations of this truth, they are buildings that harbor ancient African relics and wonderful art pieces from African artists. There are about 25 museums in Lagos, each with its own unique mode of storytelling. Here are a couple that we feel are worth a day of sightseeing and exploration:
Nike Art Gallery: Known for its sophisticated art pieces, Nike Art Gallery is one of Nigeria’s foremost hidden gems, it is a four-story building that houses a textile museum of over 7000 pieces and an art gallery also, a coffee shop in the works. The art pieces showcased gives visitors an insight into vast Nigerian talents in the arts and pays homage to the African heritage also. The gallery is open 7 days a week.
Red Door Art Gallery: home to modern African contemporary art, it is a privately owned gallery located in Victoria Island in such a way the visitors find it easy to spot, entry is completely free. It’s collection of African art pieces is impressive as it is spell binding.
Ogirikan Art Gallery: this boutique gallery located in Ikoyi is majorly known for its medium and miniature art pieces. It houses various paintings of emerging artists. The unique art selection has an accompanying twist, the gallery also has a collection of souvenirs that can serve as keepsakes such as t-shirts and bags which visitors can get at an affordable price.
Omenka Gallery: this Nigerian contemporary art gallery that exhibits the art of Nigerian and International artists alike, it is known for its art exhibitions which had its maiden edition in 2003. It exhibits the art pieces of 14 Nigerian and International artists as a whole. Its precise address is 24 Modupe Alakija Cresent, Ikoyi.
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MOCA, Lagos: The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) is a foremost art gallery that exhibits visual art in a unique way, in such a way that there is an interplay between various forms of artistic production. It is also known for its public programs and exhibitions that celebrate African art. It seeks to spark conversations on pressing issues so as to create a space for the continuous growth of contemporary art.
This is just a handful of galleries that are a visual representation of the Lagos art scene, the genuine appreciation for art in Lagos is so infectious that it warms you up to the Lagos art scene, the more you explore; the more you are stirred to keep exploring.
These galleries are definitely a sight for sore eyes, especially the eyes of tourists.
Karla Abua, for wheninlagos.com
Lead Brand Curator, WheninLagos.com is your source for local lifestyle news. We curate the things that matter to you the most and highlight great things to do, attend, view, and eat When in Lagos.
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