Gilbert Ekugbe
Patrons Modern and Contemporary African Arts (MCAA), has announced plans to hold its 6th miniature exhibition in its bid to prepare Nigeria for the $13 billion African Arts industry.
Addressing a press briefing yesterday to herald its forthcoming exhibition scheduled to hold from 30th March to 14th April 2024 in Lagos, themed “Herstory Reframed” the Director at Patrons MCAA, Ms. Keturah Ovio, stated that the $13 billion, which is just 2.5 per cent of $520 billion global arts market, is an opportunity for the private and public sector to do more.
She called on the economic managers and corporate bodies to invest in the nation’s Art industry, maintaining that arts is one of the powerful ways to export Nigeria’s culture to the world.
According to her, the main target of the exhibition is to reclaim feminine narratives, redefine icons and inspire inclusion through arts, adding that the exhibition would feature three talented and well-exhibited female artists from French-speaking African countries who would tell incredible stories through their 20 works of art
She added: The event would also feature a fireside chat, where women in business, finance and arts will discuss the way forward for the African arts industry.”
Entitled “From Brushstrokes to Bank Statements: The Art of Wealth Creation and Supporting Women Artists,” the fireside chat will feature incredible women who will discuss opportunities in the arts industry, funding gap, art financing, support for women artists and export potential in art collections.
Also speaking, the Director, Patrons MCAA, Peter Imo, said young people in Africa must take interest in arts collection, stressing that arts can increase in value when properly kept.
“Art is a long-term investment. It is an asset you own that has the capacity to exponentially grow wealth for generations,” he said.
On her part, the Director, Marketing and Communities, Patrons MCAA, Ms. Meme Osuocha, explained that the event will reframe African women’s narratives to the world and showcase the capabilities of women.