The Post-War Collection of Modern Nigerian Art is a curated assemblage of artworks created by Nigerian artists in the period following the country’s independence from colonial rule and subsequent civil conflicts.
This collection typically encompasses paintings, sculptures, mixed media works, and other artistic expressions produced by Nigerian artists in the post-independence era, reflecting their experiences, aspirations, cultural heritage, and socio-political contexts of the time.
These artworks often reflect themes such as identity, nationalism, social change, and cultural renewal, offering insights into the evolution of Nigerian art and its significance in the global art scene.
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To tell these stories, Olusegun Paul Andrew, Founder/Chair of Zero Privé Art Gallery and Convener of Museum of Modern & Contemporary African Art London, convened the Post-War Collection of Modern Nigerian Art exhibition at Alliance Francaise in Lagos, Nigeria.
He said: “The Post-War Collection of Modern Nigerian Art at Alliance Française reflects a vibrant cultural narrative, showcasing the resilience and creativity of Nigerian artists in the aftermath of conflict.
“The diverse range of artworks captures the evolution of artistic expression, intertwining tradition with contemporary themes, contributing to a rich tapestry of Nigeria’s post-war identity.
“As part of the exhibition, we scheduled an ArtTalk Show that brought experts, scholars, art critics, collectors, and artists together to ‘dimension art as an asset’ and it was a fascinating ArtTalk session on Day 3 of the Exhibition with Femi Akinsanya, Maky Makura, Obi Asika, and Olusegun Paul Andrew.”
According to the founder, exploring the dimension of art as an asset adds depth to the discourse, highlighting the intersection of artistic expression and economic value in the contemporary art scene.
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He said that incorporating artists of Nigerian descent from the post-war era in the discussion adds a significant layer of historical and cultural context. “Their contributions not only reflect artistic evolution but also offer insights into the socio-political landscape, enriching the narrative of Nigerian art during a pivotal period.”
The anticipation for more contributions to Contemporary Nigerian Art is well-founded. The dynamic and evolving nature of the art scene promises continued innovation and fresh perspectives from talented artists. Exciting times lie ahead for the exploration and celebration of Nigerian artistic expression.
“Establishing a robust ecosystem and economic value for Nigerian artists, and Africans in general hinges on implementing effective pricing mechanisms.
“This approach not only recognizes the artistic merit but also fosters sustainable growth within the creative community, contributing to a more vibrant and economically viable cultural landscape.
“Recognising and appropriately valuing African art is crucial. This not only honours the artistic heritage but also ensures fair compensation for the creativity and cultural significance embedded in these works.
According to him, by elevating the value of African art, it contributes to a more equitable and sustainable future for artists and the broader artistic community on the continent.
“The private collection of Modern & Contemporary African Art by the Olusegun Paul Andrew Foundation is instrumental in fostering a culture that intertwines wealth and creativity within the African art landscape.
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“Such initiatives contribute significantly to the elevation of African artists, promoting their works and, in turn, enhancing the cultural and economic value of African art globally,” he said.
Paul Andrew’s efforts to address undervaluation in Contemporary & Modern African Art are commendable. By implementing favourable validation mechanisms, he is not only working towards fair pricing but also contributing to a shift in perception, recognizing the true worth of African art assets.
