In a bid to artistically capture the essence of the Nigerian capital, renowned photographer and visual artist Bolaji Alonge, in collaboration with the Embassy of the Republic of Germany and esteemed German photographer Katherine Sasse, is embarking on a captivating journey to depict Abuja as a city where ambition and uncertainty gracefully coexist.
This exhibition will explore the intricate dynamics of power and precarity, while simultaneously showcasing how daily life continually redefines the rich tapestry of the capital.
Slated to run from April 18 to April 26, 2026, the ICONIC ABUJA exhibition will be hosted at the Thought Pyramid Art Centre. Visitors can immerse themselves in this unique experience daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with the exhibition opening on Sundays from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
In addition to the striking visual displays, the exhibition will feature an array of enriching activities, including a Visual Storytelling Masterclass scheduled for Thursday, April 23.
This masterclass promises to be an insightful experience for aspiring photographers and storytellers alike. Additionally, a Kids Play event, designed as a Children’s Creative Workshop, will take place on Saturday, fostering creativity and artistic expression among the younger audience.
The exhibition will showcase the works of 15 carefully selected visual artists, each bringing their unique perspective and style to the canvas of Abuja’s narrative. Among the participating artists are a diverse group, including John Ali, Bolaji Alonge himself, Ahmad Michael, Aisha Mbaya, Mustapha Musa, Dan Ogbogu, Yemi Olapo, Olaosun Oluwapelumi, Babajide Olusanya, Oluwaseun Otokiti, Austin Orakwelu, Katharina Sasse, Olanrewaju Shittu, Moses Sodipo, and Christabel Uchechi. These talented individuals were meticulously chosen from various social media platforms, reflecting a commitment to showcasing emerging voices in the art community.
The ICONIC ABUJA exhibition promises to be a celebration of art and culture, offering attendees a profound insight into the complexities and beauty of Abuja’s stories. Whether through stunning visual representations or interactive experiences, this event aims to resonate deeply with both the local community and visitors alike.
The Convener of the project, Bolaji Alonge, lamented the skewed representation of Nigeria in the online space, stressing the need for Nigerians to become international by telling their story of triumph and resilience.
He noted that ,the initiative is designed to project the beauty and complexity of Abuja to the world while encouraging artists to adopt more positive and constructive narratives about Nigeria through their work.
ICONIC Abuja builds on the success of ICONIC Lagos held at the Didi Museum in 2022.
While the Lagos edition focused on a bustling coastal metropolis, the Abuja exhibition turns its attention to a purpose-built capital conceived in 1976 as a symbol of unity and national aspiration.
Alonge emphasised that the exhibition’s aim is also to challenge conventional views of Nigeria and specifically Abuja as merely a city of grand plans and monumental landmarks. Instead, it presents the capital as a living, evolving space shaped by everyday experiences, where ambition and uncertainty coexist.
The deputy spokesperson, Dorothea Wenzel, emphasised the embassy’s strong commitment to showcasing artistic expression as a means to enhance diplomatic relationships and foster creative initiatives. She elaborated on the significance of the ICONIC ABUJA initiative, describing it as a remarkable program that not only promotes cultural creativity but also strengthens international ties through the arts.
According to Wenzel, such initiatives are essential in building bridges between communities and encouraging dialogue through various forms of artistic expression.
