The sculptor, Ato Arinze, has been appointed the 4th substantive President of the Sculptors Association of Nigeria (SCAN). Before now, he had been serving in acting capacity, following his appointment by the Board of
Trustee (BoT) as an interim President in March 2025.

His new appointment comes as a unanimous decision of the BoT to ratify his interim leadership to a full substantive tenure based on his outstanding performance in the outgoing year. He will now serve additional two years to complete his full tenure.

Other members of his executive include Emmanuel Ubamadu, Secrerary General; David Adeogun, Financial Secretary; Muraina Akeem, Treasurer; Djakou Kassi Nathalie, PRO; Dr. Kunle Fajemirokun, Assistant Secretary; Dr. Kenneth Njoku – VP, South South; Prof. Chijioke Onuora – VP, South East; Dr. Leni Satsi – VP, North East and Prof. Ken Okoli – VP, North West.

Arinze is a sculptor and potter known for both his realistic and abstract creations. Deeply rooted in his environment, his works reflect societal issues, drawing inspiration from nature and everyday life. Ato views the artist’s role as that of a journalist—observing, interpreting, and documenting the human experience through form and texture.

With a career spanning over three decades, he has been a full-time studio artist since 1992, working from his studio in Ayobo, Lagos. He is celebrated for his mastery in ceramics and sculpture, especially his expressive portraits and large-scale commissions. His technical skill and conceptual depth have earned him numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to the visual arts.

Ato’s journey as an artist started in Zixton Secondary School, Ozobulu in Anambra State. After high school he furthered his training in Anambra State Polytechnic, Oko; then later completed his studies at Yaba College of Technology, Lagos with specialization in Sculpture. He is the Co-founder and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Visions in Clay Artists Network (VICAN), and Coordinator of the Artzero Group—both platforms dedicated to the promotion of contemporary Nigerian art.

His works have been showcased in numerous exhibitions and are part of public and private collections both within Nigeria and internationally. Through his art and leadership, Arinze continues to shape and inspire the future of sculpture and ceramics in Nigeria.
Pix: Arinze