Earlier in February, the British Council put together different events in locations across Nigeria, namely Abuja, Lagos, and Port Harcourt. The gatherings and exhibitions were put together to promote growth and progress in creative communities. A melange of art exhibitions, film screenings, discussions and so much more, these events did more than bring together members of the creative community, it also allowed them to meet, network, and expand their horizons.
In Abuja, the event that took place saw creatives gather to listen to how they could best collaborate for future success. In such times when the creative community is saturated with many creatives, these creatives can often feel the need to compete, rather than collaborate. Susa Garrido, Lanre Philips, and Oluwabukunmi Oluwakitibi shared and discussed ways in which creatives could collectively take their craft to the next level, both artistically and commercially. After an insightful session with the panellists, the creatives engaged in a meet and greet at the end of the event, one of the many perks that the British Council offers communities.
The fun continued in Lagos, with a host of events taking place at the art showcase exhibition. The event catered to many facets of creativity, displaying exhibitions, film screenings, sip and paint, and musical performances. The event was packed with loads of activities where creatives could interact in a calm and serene environment. Not only did they get to mix with artists and immerse themselves in the art, but it was also an opportunity for audiences to unwind, relax, and connect. The event was also an opportunity for directors and writers to showcase their short films. At the event, the viewers got to see the award-winning “TEAR: A Tale of Two Hands” by Avwokuruaye Efetebor. Attendees also watched “Otana ”, a horror movie about a young lady who finds a way to confront her deep-seated trauma. Other movies shown include ‘’Saving Ian’’ and ‘’Pursuit’’, an action movie set in Lagos.
Afterwards, there was time for the attendants themselves to bring to life their artistic side with a sip-and-paint event. The occasion was finally capped off with an excellent performance by Loye.
Finally, the British Council put together a remarkable event in the city of Port Harcourt for the third time. The experience provided an opportunity to showcase the beauty of the artwork, and the stories embedded in each of them. The event was a platform that connected the art veterans with the incoming generation of artists, allowing them to pass knowledge and experiences to one another. Talented artists such as Charity Ibem, Davies Ben, and Ismaila Adegboyega also attend the 2-day event. Asides from displaying artwork, there were also musicals, spoken word performances, stage plays, and lots more.
Across the board, the British Council not only helps expose local artists, performers, and creators but also gives them a platform to sell their artwork, as many artists did during these events. One of the artists who benefited was Olukayode Aliyu, who sold all his 3D Art & Animation pieces displayed in Augmented Reality during the Lagos showcase event, further proving that the organisation is committed to the growth and expansion of artists as individuals and as a community as well. They have a line-up of exciting events in the month of March, all of which can be monitored here.
About British Council
The British Council is the UK’s international organisation for cultural relations and educational opportunities. We support peace and prosperity by building connections, understanding and trust between people in the UK and countries worldwide. We do this through our work in arts and culture, education and the English language. We work with people in over 200 countries and territories and are on the ground in more than 100 countries. In 2021–22 we reached 650 million people.
