Lagos, Nigeria – January 30, 2025
The 1952 Africa Foundation is thrilled to announce the launch of the Chizi Wigwe Grants for African Futurism, a transformative initiative that empowers African artists and creatives to envision a brighter future for the continent.
The Chizi Wigwe Grants: A Catalyst for Change
Named in honor of Chizi Wigwe, a former board member of the 1952 Africa Foundation and a passionate advocate for African cultural advancement, the grant aims to support innovative artistic expressions that interrogate Africa’s potential, address global challenges, and celebrate the ingenuity of African creativity. This prestigious grant awards $15,000-worth of support for the winning artist in their pursuit of creative excellence.
The HOW Foundation, represented by Tochi Wigwe, joins 1952 Africa in presenting this initiative to amplify African voices. Known for its dedication to youth empowerment, leadership development, and health advocacy, the HOW Foundation’s partnership exemplifies the shared commitment to nurturing Africa’s creative and intellectual future.
Theme: Africa in 2100
This year’s theme, “Africa in 2100,” invites artists from across Africa, aged 18 to 45, to explore the boundless possibilities of African Futurism. Applicants working across diverse mediums—including painting, sculpture, photography, filmmaking, performance art, design, and digital art—are encouraged to submit works that boldly envision the continent’s creative, cultural, and technological future.
Why African Futurism?
African Futurism embodies the intersection of cultural heritage, technology, and imagination. This year’s theme challenges artists to explore questions such as:
• What will African societies look like in 2100?
• How will technology shape cultural traditions, art, and innovation on the continent?
• What role will Africa play in addressing global challenges and advancing humanity?
Eligibility Criteria
• Open to artists and creatives across Africa, aged 18-45.
• Applicants must submit an original entry aligned with the theme “Africa in 2100.”
• Open to practitioners working across all artistic disciplines and mediums.
How to Apply
Full submission guidelines, including eligibility criteria and required documents, can be found on the website www.1952africa.art.
About the 1952 Africa Foundation
The 1952 Africa Foundation is dedicated to fostering the growth of emerging African artists, offering them platforms to showcase their creativity and bridge the gap between local talent and global recognition. Through residencies, grants and programs, the foundation celebrates the transformative power of African art and its ability to shape a better future.
1952 Africa also organizes the annual 1952 Africa Art Accelerator, a Lagos-based residency program now in its fourth year, nurturing West African artists with mentorship, resources, and global exposure.
Join Us in Envisioning a Brighter Future for Africa
The Chizi Wigwe Grants for African Futurism reflects the foundation’s commitment to empowering African artists and fostering a more equitable and inclusive creative landscape. We invite you to join us in supporting this initiative.
For press inquiries, partnership opportunities, or additional details about the grant, please contact: info@1952africa.art
