Must-visit art galleries in Lagos

Looking for a dose of creativity in Lagos at affordable to no cost? Explore these must-visit art galleries for a solo art exhibition date, a chilled weekend with friends, or a unique experience with family.

Tips to maximise your viewing experience

● Take note of the title of each piece.
● Observe the colours used.
● Pay attention to the brushwork and layering techniques.
● Look closely for subtle details.
● Reflect on what emotions, experiences, or memories the piece evokes.
● Read the artist’s note to gain insight into the inspiration or intent behind the art piece.
● Exchange opinions with other attendees and curators.
● Buy the artwork if you can.

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1. Nike centre for art and culture

Owned by Nike Davies Okundaye, this free-to-visit gallery features over 8,000 artworks from different Nigerian artists. The gallery occupies a five-floor ultra-modern cultural art centre in Lekki. With four branches in Nigeria, Nike Art Gallery houses paintings, sculptures, beadworks, and metal works.

2. Nigerian National Museum

Established in 1957, the National Museum is one of the oldest in Nigeria. It houses a vast collection of historical Nigerian artefacts, including statues, carvings, and archaeological and ethnographic exhibits. One notable artefact is the Jemaa Nok head, a terra-cotta piece dating back to 900-200 BC. The entry fee is affordable for an unguided tour.

3. Rele Art Gallery

Rele Art Gallery is a contemporary art space owned by Adenrele Sonariwo, a renowned art curator and former accountant. With two locations in Lagos and branches in Los Angeles and London, Rele displays art for art lovers and collectors while nurturing artists and exposing their works to a wider audience.

4. Red Door Gallery

At Red Door Gallery, the concept of “African Art” does not exist. Who’s to say what African art should look like? The art gallery offers a platform for artists to express their creativity without societal boundaries. Located in Victoria Island, Lagos, Red Door Gallery offers a wide array of services, from collector advisory to valuation, restorations, public and private commissions, and even art classes.

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5. Art Twenty-One

Dedicated to contemporary African art, Art Twenty One promotes local and international art designs and supports the growth of artists and designers. The gallery was founded in April 2013 by Caline Chagoury Moudaber and is located at Eko Hotel and Suites.

6. Nomadic Art Gallery

Owned by Mrs Charlotte Obidairo, Nomadic Art Gallery—the Afrobeat of Art—is dedicated to supporting diasporic art. The “Nomadic” gallery brings artists together, helps their artworks travel, and improves visibility for African artists. It has hosted exhibitions in various African countries, including Johannesburg, Cape Town, Kenya, and Nairobi.