Unmasking Art in Lagos 

Mary Nnah

For many, the world of art is seen as an exclusive club for the wealthy. But the Lagos Art Salon is on a mission to change that. By making art more accessible and inclusive, they aim to break down social barriers and bring art to the masses. The 2024 Lagos Art Salon, organised by Teal Culture, took place from November 28 to December 3 in Victoria Island, Lagos.

The five-day exhibition, themed Art Unmasked, showcased the incredible diversity and talent of Nigerian artists. The event brought the vibrant Lagos art community together, leaving a lasting impact on all who attended.

According to Folakemi Oloye, founder of The Lagos Art Salon and Teal Harmony, parent company of Teal Culture, “The Lagos Art Salon is committed to promoting Nigerian art and providing a platform for artists to showcase their work. We envision this becoming a regular event, expanding to greater heights, and celebrating the brilliance of Nigerian art.”

The exhibition showcased a diverse collection of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and mixed-media installations. This rich and immersive display allowed attendees to explore and interact with the art in a meaningful way.

The event attracted a wide range of visitors, from art collectors and creatives to influencers and local art enthusiasts. Guests enjoyed guided tours, insightful discussions with the featured artists, and a unique opportunity to connect with the art and artists. A highlight of the event was the Art Unmasked Master Class, which provided valuable insights into art investment and its potential as a valuable asset.

Additionally, the Lagos Art Salon offered a series of workshops and masterclasses, covering topics such as art appreciation, collecting, conservation, and restoration. These interactive sessions aimed to educate and inspire attendees, fostering a deeper appreciation for art. 

The masterclass, moderated by Omotunde Ibironke, brought together a panel of experts, including financier and art patron Niyi Adenubi, renowned sculptor Ato Arinze, and National Theatre CEO Tola Akerele.

The exhibition showcased an impressive lineup of artists, featuring both resident and new exhibitors. Notable artists included AbdulRazaq. A. Titilayo, Usman Semiu Alvin, Omolola Coker, and Segun Akano, alongside resident artists Saheed Adelakun, Nathalie Kassi, and Orlu Prince Moses.

Attendees, ranging from seasoned collectors to new enthusiasts, gained valuable insights into acquiring and preserving art. They also enjoyed guided tours, conversations with featured artists, and a networking session that fostered connections within the artistic and cultural communities. 

The exhibition was open to the public from Saturday, November 30, to Tuesday, December 3, providing a space where visitors could immerse themselves in the creative expressions of the featured artists.

According to Oloye, “The inspiration behind the Unmasked theme is deeply personal. I’m passionate about stripping away the layers of misconceptions and biases that often surround art. For too long, art has been perceived as an elitist pursuit, inaccessible to those who don’t speak the language of the art world. But we believe that art is for everyone, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status.

“Our goal is to make art more accessible and intimate, allowing people to truly feel, consume, and live with it. We want to create a space where art lovers can connect with the artists, learn about their creative processes, and experience the beauty and emotion of art firsthand. By doing so, we hope to break down the barriers that have long separated art from the everyday lives of Nigerians,” she added.

Oloye emphasised that the Lagos Art Salon is committed to providing a platform for artists to showcase their work and to promote Nigerian art. She also noted that the event is designed to be immersive, allowing attendees to experience art in a unique and interactive way.

“We are always big on making sure that we’re looking for people that produce in line with quality and value. Making sure that whoever gets to experience any of our furniture, our pieces, our decor, whatever it is, they get fantastic value for it,” she noted.

The Lagos Art Salon is indeed a game-changer in the Nigerian art scene, providing a platform for artists to showcase their work and for art enthusiasts to experience and interact with art in a unique and immersive way.

As Oloye noted, “Let your hair down, come and experience the beautiful works that have been curated by artists from multi-generations. We want to make art accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status.”

The Lagos Art Salon embodies the transformative power of art to unite people and foster a sense of community. This vibrant celebration showcases the richness of Nigerian art and culture, highlighting the profound impact art has on our lives.

As the art world continues to evolve, the Lagos Art Salon remains at the forefront, innovating and pushing boundaries. This immersive experience inspires, educates, and entertains, leaving a lasting impression on all who attend. For professed art aficionados or aesthetes, it is an unforgettable event. 

According to Oloye, “The Lagos Art Salon is not just an exhibition; it’s an experience. We want to create a space where people can come together to appreciate, learn about, and interact with art in a unique and immersive way.

“The Lagos Art Salon is a celebration of Nigerian art and culture, and a recognition of the important role that art plays in our lives. We are committed to making art accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status. We believe that art has the power to transform lives and communities, and we want to be a part of that transformation.