Nigeria’s premium destination for contemporary African art, Iwalewa Gallery of Art, based in Lagos, has urged artists, collectors, and the general public to verify all communications through the gallery’s official website and verified channels.

The gallery also urged them to avoid sharing personal, financial or professional information with unknown persons online; and report suspicious messages falsely claiming to represent Iwalewa Gallery of Art.

The firm warned that it will not be responsible for any loss or damages resulting from interactions with individuals falsely claiming to represent the organisation.

It reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, integrity, and the genuine promotion of African artists worldwide.

This is coming as the company complained of unknown individuals impersonating the gallery to deceive artists across social media platforms.

In a statement, it lamented that the imposters have been sending unsolicited messages to artists, falsely claiming to represent Iwalewa Gallery of Art and inviting them to participate in a supposed international exhibition.

Part of the message reads: “We’re selecting artists reflecting cultural, industrial, and environmental themes. Your work fits perfectly for our upcoming U.S. exhibition and artist choice environment series.”

The Gallery said in some cases, the fraudsters also attempt to purchase artworks or solicit sensitive personal and financial information from unsuspecting artists.

“Iwalewa Gallery of Art categorically states that it has no knowledge, involvement, or affiliation with this campaign or the individuals behind it.

“The gallery does not conduct artist recruitment, artwork purchases, or exhibition selections through unofficial social media messages or private unsolicited communications.”

The company advised the public to ignore unsolicited messages and report suspected fraud to appropriate authorities or financial institutions.