Organisers of the upcoming Wo’Ama Business Conference have reaffirmed their commitment to advancing a sustainable future for the African Art Industry, promoting unity among stakeholders.

In a statement shared with *The Guardian*, the conference, themed “Art Business & Beyond: Navigating the Business of Art from an African Viewpoint,” is set for December 3 at Alliance Française in Ikoyi, Lagos. The event will focus on innovative approaches to financing, career longevity, and the preservation of Africa’s cultural heritage.

The statement highlights significant challenges facing the African Art Industry, including limited funding, fragmented markets, and unsustainable practices, even as the continent’s rich cultural heritage gains global recognition.

Describing the industry as being at a pivotal moment, the conference aims to address critical gaps and provide actionable strategies to enhance sustainability and global competitiveness. It will bring together top artists, curators, gallerists, cultural administrators, and policymakers.

Spokesperson for the conference emphasized its transformative potential, stating, “The African art industry has the potential to redefine its global footprint. Achieving this requires collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and policy reform. The Wo’Ama Business Conference is where ideas meet actionable strategies.”

The day-long event will feature a comprehensive lineup of discussions and workshops designed to address the pressing needs of the sector. Key sessions will explore career opportunities in museums, galleries, and art centers, as well as strategies for success in curation and administration.

One panel will focus on pre-colonial Nigerian art, highlighting the enduring influence of iconic art forms like Nok terracotta and Benin bronzes on contemporary practice. Another key session, “Art Meets Government,” will discuss strategies for advocating increased public funding for the arts and fostering stronger partnerships between the industry and African governments.

Additionally, the conference will cover innovative financing models, including corporate sponsorships, philanthropy, and international grants, aimed at enhancing the financial sustainability of the sector.

Beyond the agenda, emerging artists, cultural administrators, and gallerists will also have a unique platform to exchange ideas and form meaningful collaborations. The event will also underscore the importance of public funding, encouraging stakeholders to strategize on prioritizing the arts in governmental policies.