A new opportunity is emerging for young Nigerian artists under 35, courtesy of a collaborative effort between the Africa Art Fund and the Nigeria Economic Summit Group (NESG). To celebrate NESG’s three decades of existence, the partners have unveiled a nationwide art contest specifically designed for emerging talent within this age group.

The competition’s significance is underscored by its ability to offer young artists a unique chance to gain visibility and financial support, with the entry deadline set for September 14. Furthermore, this initiative is poised to play a crucial role in cultivating Nigeria’s future art leaders, leveraging the country’s increasing global recognition for its thriving art scene to potentially stimulate the nation’s creative economy.

In a recent announcement, the organisers encouraged artists to submit their work by September 14 through the Africa Art Fund or NESG websites. A panel of judges will select the top three winners from a shortlist of 20, with prizes of ₦3 million, ₦2 million, and ₦1 million to be awarded at the NESG conference in Abuja this October.

The upcoming summit will showcase an exclusive exhibition of the finalists’ artwork, accompanied by the presentation of awards to the winners. Additionally, participants will have access to a comprehensive two-month workshop and leadership training programme designed to equip students with the essential skills to succeed in the competitive art industry. This initiative is aligned with NESG’s goal of promoting a private sector-driven economy in Nigeria.

Through its collaboration with the Africa Art Fund, NESG seeks to harness the power of art as a stimulus for economic growth. Ifesinachi Nwanyanwu, president and CEO of Africa Art Fund, believes this partnership offers a unique chance to position art as a key driver of economic development. As a respected environmental artist and curator, Nwanyanwu reveals that the Africa Art Fund concept was meticulously developed to support this mission and empower artists to contribute to Nigeria’s economic growth.

Drawing from his own experiences as a self-taught visual artist who faced financial struggles early in his career, Nwanyanwu, a graduate of crop production from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, recognised the need for support systems to enable artists and creatives to flourish. “I’ve always explored ways to support fellow creatives,” he shares.

Nwanyanwu’s own experiences as an artist have given him a deep understanding of the challenges faced by creatives in need of support. Having struggled with financial constraints and limited resources early in his career, he has been driven to find ways to uplift and empower fellow artists. Through his work at a gallery, where he co-curates with Uzodinma Iweala, Nwanyanwu has strived to create a supportive environment that fosters artistic growth.

However, it was his participation in the esteemed International Visitors Leadership Program (IVLP) in 2023 that crystalised his vision for the Africa Art Fund. Recognised by the US State Department for his community service, he undertook an intensive three-week journey across the US, which further shaped his concept.

Nwanyanwu’s participation in the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) broadened his perspective on the art and culture ecosystem, highlighting the crucial role of philanthropic funds in driving growth. This experience inspired him to establish the Africa Art Fund, with a vision to adapt effective models and create a comprehensive support system for Africa’s creative community. He aims to mobilise over $100 million in funding for innovative art initiatives across Africa within the current fiscal year. To achieve this, he emphasises the importance of grassroots engagement, encouraging individuals to contribute and donate to the cause. Nwanyanwu stresses that community ownership and engagement are vital for sustainability, noting that individuals and organisations across Africa and the diaspora are willing to donate substantially, recognising the impact of art on economic development and community cohesion. The Africa Art Fund seeks to fill the gap in philanthropy and charity in art and culture through advocacy, grantmaking, and leadership, ultimately empowering communities to take ownership of the conversation and drive positive change.

The Africa Art Fund is designed to provide financial support to a diverse range of artistic disciplines, including performing arts, visual arts, literary arts, and more. The fund’s allocation process is transparent and rigorous, with a dedicated committee overseeing the distribution of grants based on clear criteria. Each application is carefully evaluated to ensure a fair and unbiased selection, enabling the fund to support innovative and impactful projects.

Nwanyanwu notes that the local art scene is vibrant, with a new generation of artists pushing boundaries and showcasing their talents. However, the industry faces challenges such as funding constraints, a lack of dedicated spaces, and limited government support. Despite these obstacles, Nwanyanwu believes the scene has potential for growth with government and private sector involvement. Recognising the power of art and creativity to drive economic development and promote social cohesion, the Africa Art Fund aims to address these challenges through strategic leadership, grantmaking, and advocacy over the next five years, ultimately fostering a thriving and sustainable creative ecosystem.