Gallery empowers youth on art, culture, nature preservation

In a bid to promote African storytelling, preserve cultural heritage and encourage environmental sustainability, Daniel Ajayi, popularly known as Danpencil, has called on the media, government agencies, research institutions and other stakeholders to relay positive narratives about Africa.

The Creative Director of Dan Pencil Gallery, who spoke at Lagos State Urban Forest and Animal Shelter Initiative (LUFASI) Nature Park in Lekki, Lagos, emphasised the importance of showcasing African culture through arts and tourism. He described art as life itself, highlighting its therapeutic nature.

As visual artist, “everything about life starts with strokes and lines, including our skeletal structure. My artworks consist of different lines that express emotions, situations — both positive and negative— and everyday experiences,” he explained.

Danpencil urged Nigerian youths to take pride in their cultural heritage and use art as a medium to portray Africa positively on the global stage. His gallery, located on LUFASI Park, offers a serene and creative space featuring traditional paintings, sculptures, live art, and various artistic expressions. He also has partnered and collaborated with young and old artists to showcase their art pieces for global relevance.

He urged government to establish art villages and provide enabling environment for workshops and galleries, which would serve as platforms to empower young artists and promote African storytelling globally.

“We need to ensure that our stories are told authentically—from our future to our past—to reshape Africa’s image positively,” he stated.

He added that arts as a tool for international relations, recognising the role of arts in fostering unity and economic growth, Danpencil encourages Nigerians to leverage their cultural and artistic heritage to strengthen international relations. He noted that art serves as a bridge between Africans and foreigners, bringing together diverse cultures to celebrate traditions and craftsmanship.

Expressing appreciation, he acknowledged the contributions of Chairman of the Lagos State Urban Forest and Animal Shelter Initiative (LUFASI), Dr. Desmond Majekodunmi, and Mr Evans Basil, General Manager of LUFASI Nature Park, for their efforts in preserving nature, wildlife, and Nigeria’s rich artistic heritage.