In a spectacular ceremony held at the Access Bank headquarters, the esteemed Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, unveiled his masterful art collection, ‘A King’s Passion: A 21st Century Patron of African Art’. The 588-page book is a tribute to the Obi’s unwavering love of creativity and legacy. It is a remarkable examination of African art and culture, generously sponsored by Access Bank and the Ford Foundation.
At the heart of this opulent publication lies the Obi of Onitsha’s extraordinary art collection. This treasure trove comprises over 4000 artworks meticulously amassed over four decades. More than a mere catalogue, ‘A King’s Passion’ delves into the depths of the Obi’s intellectual curiosity, intuition, and a love affair with art that has spanned a lifetime.
The publication features carefully selected modern and contemporary masterpieces and was also edited by SMO Contemporary Art. Lavishly illustrated in full colour, the volume features 119 African artists drawn from 10 countries. They included influential figures like Ben Enwonwu, Uche Okeke, Bruce Onobrakpeya, Ablade Glover, El Anatsui, and Ludovic Fadairo
The book also contains critical essays contributed by esteemed scholars and experts on African art. Sylvester Ogbechie, Frank Ugiomoh, Edwin Bodjawah, Babacar Mbow, Krdyz Ikwuemesi, Jerry Buhari, Bernard Akoi-Jackson, Chike Nwagbogu, Oliver Enwonwu, and others have lent their expertise, enriching the reader’s understanding of the cultural significance embedded within each piece.
The significance of ‘A King’s Passion’ extends beyond the realm of art. It heralds the impending inauguration of the Chimedie Museum in Onitsha, Anambra State. This ambitious venture, set to open its doors in 2025, will also serve as a sanctuary for the Obi of Onitsha’s cherished collection. More than a repository of art, the museum will house photographs, music, video recordings, royal regalia, historic documents, and research materials—a cultural treasure trove preserving the essence of Onitsha’s heritage.
Art luminaries such as Senior Director of Sotheby’s auction house, Hannah O’Leary; renowned photographer, Kelechi Amadi-Obi; philanthropist Femi Akinsanya; and the visionary behind the ART X Lagos art fair, Tokini Peterside-Schwebig graced the launch event.. Their insightful discussions, expertly moderated by Titi Ogufere, the convener of Design Week Lagos, further underscored the transformative power of art in shaping identities, fostering community connections, and redefining narratives.
Speaking at the event, the CEO of Access Holdings and also one of the sponsors, Herbert Wigwe, said,
“The impact of Igwe Achebe’s exquisite art collection and his strategic art patronage for over 40 years nurturing African talent, is a beautiful example of how creativity can create wealth from the grassroots up through society, and create important paradigm shifts about our identity, our culture, and our history.”
The book is dedicated to the memory of the late Innocent Chukwuma, a well-known social justice activist and former West African representative of the Ford Foundation, who provided seed funding to support its publication.
“The Obi of Onitsha did not establish the museum for the love of art only but also because of his understanding of the importance of owning one’s own story and narrative and passing it down in a cultural context that is true to its original meaning,” commented Chichi Anyiagolu-Okoye, the current Ford Foundation Director for West Africa.
The book serves as a beacon, illuminating the boundless creativity and cultural richness of the African continent to art connoisseurs. Through the fervent dedication of the Obi of Onitsha and the collaborative efforts of scholars, artists, and patrons, this publication stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of African art, ensuring its vibrant spirit continues to inspire generations to come.
