Organized by Ogirikan Gallery and Iwalewa Art gallery, the Miniature Art Fair is back in Lagos reaffirming its long-term commitment to making art accessible to everyone. The fair, which is currently in it’s fourth Edition began on the 8th and ended the 10th of April.
The Miniature Art Fair Lagos is Nigeria’s largest exhibition of portable artworks. This free annual art event is distinctive because it features a selection of small works by both well-known and up-and-coming artists and is open to both experienced and new collectors.
In contrast to the art scene dominated by the passion for large-scale works, the fair has established itself as a prominent brand in the small art sector of Nigeria’s expanding art market. Despite the issue of scale, the fair’s significance lies in its efforts to make established and developing generations of local and international art dealers and collectors aware of the wide variety of cutting-edge art forms on display at this yearly exhibition.
The Miniature Art Festival has made progress since its start in 2018. Since then, the fair has raised awareness about the richness and metaphorical significance buried in this form of art among Nigerian artists, collectors, and art enthusiasts. Sales and appreciation are rising as the interests of more stakeholders are intensifying. With the possibility of additional artists joining the movement, their network of interested established and up-and-coming artists has increased fourfold.
The evolution of the fair over the years has led to the development of more meaningful connections as it relates to the democratization of art patronage and the exchanges between Nigerian artists (Africa) and artists in other continents like Europe, America and Asia. The expo is also launching situations for the advancement of Nigerian art that are educationally and historically significant. The famous art historian Kunle Adeyemi, MFA, PhD, FSNA, will offer an artist talk titled “Presentation of art, storage and cataloguing” in order to achieve this.
The expo moved to the digital realm in 2021 which brought about increased participation in the events. This approach was used again this year with the promise of even greater audience and artist diversity. It will give collectors a wide range of options. The two coordinating galleries will have their own booths for the first time since the event’s start.
According to Adeolu of Ogrikan gallery, “the artworks that will be on display spans artworks classified under the traditional and modern art genres, Naturalistic and abstract art forms. We also have artworks made with found objects, discarded objects such as works made from aluminium cans and pieces of fabrics.”
Professor Jerry Buhari, a well-known supporter of miniature art noted that “Art fairs and exhibitions in Nigeria are accompanied by large-sized artworks and large spaces. They present us with a certain air of intimidating cultural arrogance. But on the other hand, the beauty of miniature works, by their size, appeal to the individual on a quiet, deep and personal dialogue.” Based on this trajectory, the miniature art fare fills a void that helps to complete the circle.
On the journey so far, Femi Williams the co-host of the fair and the CEO of Iwalewa Gallery of Art noted that “the 2023 Miniature Art Fair will be a huge success, considering what has been put in place for its organization.” He thanked the artists who will be showcasing their incredible talent and skill in creating such beautiful miniature works of art.
Professor Bruce Onobrakpeya, Chief (Mrs.) Nike Monica Davies-Okundayo, Tola Wewe, Jerry Buhari, Duke Asidere, and Dr. Kenneth Njoku are among of the artists whose works will be shown in the fair’s 2023 edition.
About Ogrikan Gallery
Ogirikan Gallery is an art gallery located in Nigeria. On a mission to showcase unique perspectives and facilitate meaningful conversations, the gallery showcases a diverse collection of contemporary art from both emerging and established Nigerian artists. The Gallery believe art is a powerful tool for social commentary, cultural expression, and personal reflection.
Through passionate team members, the gallery continues to actively promote Nigerian art and supports local artists. Through exhibitions and events, they help foster a greater appreciation for Nigerian art and culture, both within Nigeria and around the world.
About Iwalewa Art gallery
Founded in 2015 by artist and art entrepreneur, Femi Williams, Iwalewa Gallery of Art is a diverse range of human activities in creating visual, auditory, or performing artifacts (artworks), expressing the author’s imaginative or technical skill intended to be appreciated for their beauty or emotional power. Iwalewa Art gallery displays beauty in the form of sculptures, paintings, motifs, collages, and more. It is situated in Chevy view estate in Lagos, a serene environment that breeds peace.
