Art is often shrouded in exclusivity, but the Lagos Art Salon is rewriting the narrative. Organized by Teal Culture, this year’s edition, themed Art Unmasked, aimed to demystify art appreciation and investment, while celebrating Nigeria’s creative talent. From November 28 to December 3, 2024, the event transformed Victoria Island into a vibrant hub of artistry and culture.
Private Viewing: Art Meets Elegance
The salon opened with an exclusive private viewing that welcomed a curated audience of art collectors, influencers, and creatives. Guests had the opportunity to engage directly with the artists, gaining deeper insights into the works on display. The pieces—spanning paintings, sculptures, and mixed-media installations—provided a glimpse into the depth and diversity of Nigerian artistry.
Accompanied by live music and gourmet offerings, the evening was a seamless blend of culture and sophistication, creating a space where art could truly shine.
Masterclass: Art as an Investment
Day 2 brought an educational focus with the Art Unmasked Masterclass, an engaging session designed to strip away the mystery surrounding art investment. Moderated by Omotunde Ibironke, the masterclass featured a distinguished panel of experts, including:
- Niyi Adenubi (Financier and Co-founder of VFD Group Plc.),
- Ato Prinze (Renowned Sculptor), and
- Tola Akerele (CEO of the National Theatre).
The discussions ranged from strategies for acquiring art to its long-term value as an asset. Both seasoned collectors and first-time buyers left with actionable insights, making the world of art investment feel more accessible and tangible.
An Immersive Art Experience
For the remainder of the event, the exhibition opened to the public, inviting attendees to explore the featured works at their leisure. The carefully curated lineup of artists included:
- Main Artists: AbdulRazaq. A. Titilayo, Usman Semiu Alvin, Omolola Coker, and Segun Akano.
- Resident Artists: Saheed Adelakun, Nathalie Kassi, and Orlu Prince Moses.
Each piece was displayed in a way that encouraged interaction, reflection, and dialogue, fostering a deeper connection between viewers and the art.
Guided tours and conversations with the artists added another layer of immersion, creating a welcoming space for anyone curious about the world of Nigerian art.
A Vision for Nigerian Art
Founder Folakemi Oloye, also the brain behind Teal Culture, spoke passionately about the salon’s mission:
“The Lagos Art Salon is committed to promoting Nigerian art and providing a platform for artists to showcase their work. We also want to make the business of art more accessible to a wider audience, as art investment is actually a profitable venture.”
Oloye’s dedication to fostering collaboration and appreciation within the Nigerian art community was evident throughout the event.
The Future of Lagos Art Salon
With plans to make the Lagos Art Salon a regular feature on Nigeria’s cultural calendar, the initiative aims to expand its reach, bridging local artistry with global audiences. By creating a space that is both inclusive and celebratory, the salon is not just showcasing Nigerian art—it’s redefining how it’s experienced.
For now, Art Unmasked has left its mark, proving that art is not just for the privileged few—it’s for everyone willing to look a little closer.