Culture Art Academy floats teachers’ art exhibition to foster creativity among educators

To promote uniqueness and diversity among arts teachers nationwide, Culture Art Academy organised a two-week Teachers’ Art exhibition in Lagos.

The event, themed ‘Breathtaking,’ marked the academy’s third edition and brought together art educators from primary, post-primary schools, and tertiary institutions.

Speaking at the event which held at Fobally Art World Africa, CEO of Culture Art Academy and initiator of the Teachers’ Art Exhibition, Augustine Ekhaiyeme described the event as a strategic move to drive sustainability in Africa’s art space.

Ekhaiyeme also said that the annual event also aimed to create a platform for artists and art educators to connect, network, and sell work as well as to offer teachers and artists exposure, celebration, and confidence to building their God-given talent.

He identified economic constraints which according to him, include high cost of materials and limited buyer purchasing power as major challenges facing artists in the country.

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Another challenge faced by artists in the country, he said, is limited job opportunities and low value assigned to art roles adding, “Art often devalued in schools and by society, reducing long-term engagement”.

While emphasising the need for more collaborations among artists in Nigeria, he stressed the need for government and corporate organisations to create accessible funding platforms for individual artists and organisations.

Speaking also at the event, Chairman Society of Nigerian Artists, Lagos State Chapter, Kolawole Olojo-Kosoko stated that the two–week exhibition continues to affirm the vital role of art educators as both custodians and innovators within the creative landscape.

According to him, “As true mind builders these teachers extend their influence far beyond the classroom, shaping not only artistic skills but also critical thinking, imagination, and cultural consciousness.

“The works presented in this exhibition reflect a profound commitment to creative excellence, revealing the depth of experience, discipline, and intellectual rigor that define their practice,” he added.

On the theme of the exhibition, ‘BreathTaking’, he said it speaks to the power of art to inspire awe, provoke thought, and stir emotion.

“Yet, beyond its aesthetic appeal, this exhibition stands as a testament to the resilience and doggedness of art teachers who consistently bridge the gap between theory and practice.

“It reinforces the idea that what is taught within the classroom is not static or confined; rather, it is transitional, evolving through experimentation, professional practice, and lifelong learning.

“Importantly, this noble effort finds its roots in the enduring legacy of pioneering art educators such as Aina Onabolu, Uche Okeke, Demas Nwoko, Kolade Oshinowo, and Bruce Onobrakpeya, among others. These forebears laid the intellectual and creative foundations upon which contemporary art education in Nigeria thrives.

“Through their pioneering efforts, whether in formalising art education, advocating for indigenous aesthetics, or mentoring generations of artists, they established a tradition where teaching and practice are inseparable.

“Their legacy continues to resonate in this exhibition. Much like these icons, the participating teachers embody a philosophy where the studio and classroom exist as one continuous space of inquiry and innovation.

“They demonstrate that art education is not merely instructional but transformational, a process that nurtures identity, preserves culture, and challenges societal narratives.”

In showcasing their works, he said that the art educators have reaffirmed to their students that artistic knowledge is dynamic, evolving, and enduring.

To him, their practice becomes a living curriculum one that mentors, guides, and leaves an indelible legacy for the next generation of artists.

“Through this continuum, the boundaries between teacher and practitioner dissolve, creating a vibrant ecosystem of shared growth, critical engagement, and inspiration,” he said.

On his part, a vision artist, Yusuf Durodola, commended the initiator of the Teachers’ Art Exhibition, saying it provides teachers with professional development, fosters a strong school community, and serves as an essential advocacy tool for arts education.

On her part, Creative Director, Fobally Art World Africa, Abiola Folasade emphasised that the exhibition highlights how art teachers integrate their teaching with their professional practice, demonstrating that creativity is a lifelong pursuit.

While stating that the exhibition offers a unique perspective on how the energy of teaching can fuel new artistic directions, she added, “It is an art show that triggers curiosity about the future landscape of Nigerian and African Arts.”

Speaking on behalf of the participating art teachers, Temidayo Ayeni described the exhibition as an eye opener and added that it provides opportunity for participating teachers to collaborate and network, ultimately enhancing creativity in students.