LIMCAF boosts Nigerian art landscape with more exposures

…Over ₦60m to be won by artists in this year’s edition

Once again, the Life in My City Art Festival (LIMCAF), is set to engage some talented Nigerian visual artists in healthy rivalry this year.

The festival, which holds under the theme, “Can We Breathe?”, has a lot going for it amid promises of much excitement.

Adding to the excitement is a significant increase in prize money, with over ₦60 million to be won across various categories. The development is expected to draw even more talented artists to the festival, showcasing a remarkable range of artistic ability and inventiveness.

Indeed, LIMCAF’s persistence since 2007, despite sponsorship concerns, underscores the organisers’ dedication. Celebrating its 18th edition, LIMCAF’s impressive longevity and resilience earn it special recognition.

Up for grabs as usual is a slew of impressive prizes, with the Elder Kalu Young Artist of the Year Prize, sponsored by the family of the late Elder Kalu Uke Kalu, taking the top spot with a cash award equivalent to USD$2000. With its recent increase from ₦1 million last year, the prize solidifies its position as the festival’s most coveted award.

In addition to the impressive prize, a range of category prizes will be awarded to exceptional entries in various visual arts categories. The Chinelo Chime Prize for Best in Photography, worth ₦1 million, is one of such notable awards. Furthermore, prizes for outstanding works in painting, sculpture, drawing, and ceramics will also be awarded, each valued at ₦500,000. These prizes not only recognise artistic excellence but also provide a platform for emerging artists to showcase their talents.

This year’s edition also introduces new category prizes, highlighting LIMCAF’s commitment to promoting diversity and innovation in the arts. While the Armstrong Obialo Prize recognises innovative artwork created with wastepaper as a medium, the Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo Prize honours exceptional artistic talent among people with disabilities. These additions underscore the festival’s dedication to celebrating artistic expression in all its forms.

LIMCAF has long been a revered platform for those seeking to honour their loved ones and leave a lasting legacy. One way it has done this is by establishing endowed prizes, which, bearing the names of esteemed individuals, recognise exceptional artistic talent. For instance, the Justice Anthony Aniagolu Prize celebrates extraordinary inventiveness, while the Dr. Pius Okigbo Prize honours outstanding technical proficiency.

But what is truly remarkable is the network of generous individuals who have come forward to empower young artists across different regions. Through endowed regional prizes, these visionaries are fostering a sense of community and creative growth, inspiring talented youth to pursue their passion. The impact is tangible: the Mfon Usoro Prize shines a spotlight on outstanding artistry from Uyo, while the VinMartins Ilo Prize celebrates exceptional talent from Enugu, providing a platform for these emerging artists to shine. The collective effort is a testament to the power of community and the transformative impact of art on young lives.

LIMCAF has also been a springboard for creative growth through innovative training initiatives. Immersive residencies and intensive boot camps equip young artists with the essential tools, expertise, and confidence to thrive in the national and international art landscape. Artists, through their participation, have been empowered to navigate the complexities of the competitive art world.

In what is to many a bold move to foster artistic diversity, LIMCAF has expanded its eligibility criteria, inviting Nigerian artists and foreign artists who have been residing in Nigeria for at least five years, aged 35 and below, to participate in its latest edition. This deliberate widening of eligibility aims to unleash a vibrant spectrum of artistic expressions, as diverse voices converge to create a rich narrative.

Meanwhile, the submission window is now open, with a nominal entry fee of N5,000, until May 31, 2025.

Taking a significant leap forward, LIMCAF has announced the appointment of three distinguished industry leaders to its Board of Trustees. This powerhouse trio brings a wealth of expertise to the table: Barbara Kalu, executive vice president, Argus Media, contributes her global market savvy; Sandra Mbanefo Obiago, a renowned filmmaker and multicultural artist, injects creative flair; and Jerry Buhari, a distinguished professor of Fine Art at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, lends academic gravitas. Together, they position LIMCAF to drive innovation, expand its reach, and transform the lives of aspiring young artists.

At its core, LIMCAF is driven by a commitment to diversity, equality, and opportunity. The organisation welcomes emerging talents from across Nigeria, regardless of gender or background. In fact, female artists are eligible for special prizes, reflecting LIMCAF’s dedication to amplifying under-represented voices.

Ultimately, LIMCAF’s impact extends beyond the realm of professional artists. The organisation is equally passionate about nurturing the creative spark in younger generations. Through training workshops designed for primary and secondary school children—including those living with disabilities—LIMCAF provides a platform for artistic expression and growth. The success of past workshops in Abuja and Enugu attests to its unwavering commitment to empowering artists of all ages and abilities.