Dara Shonubi, born in 1997, is a versatile creative whose expertise spans construction, film production, product design, and art. As a multifaceted professional, he effortlessly navigates diverse projects, bringing innovative solutions and artistic flair to each endeavour. In addition to his professional career, Dara co-owns the Art Roost Gallery, a dynamic space dedicated to nurturing young contemporary artists and fostering a vibrant art community in Nigeria. His involvement in the art world reflects a deep commitment to supporting emerging talent and connecting with art collectors, emphasizing the importance of community and creativity.
G.A: What motivated the creation of the Art Roost Gallery, and why was the focus on contemporary art in Lagos, Nigeria?
D.S: The inspiration to open the Art Roost Gallery stemmed from our passion for art and a desire to create a space where young contemporary artists in Nigeria can thrive. Lagos, as a cultural hub, is teeming with creative energy and untapped potential in the art scene. We aimed to establish a platform that not only showcases contemporary art but also nurtures young artists who often struggle to find opportunities to express and share their work.
G.A: Can you share the original goals and aspirations for Art Roost’s identity and impact; and how has the reality of running a contemporary art space in Lagos shaped or refined that vision over time?
D.S: Initially, our goal was to create a nurturing environment where young artists could experiment, grow, and gain exposure. We aspired to bridge the gap between emerging talent and a young, contemporary audience that might not typically engage with traditional art spaces. Over time, operating in Lagos refined this vision. We realized the importance of not just showcasing art but also providing educational resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities. The challenges of the local art market pushed us to be more innovative in how we engage with our audience, leading to the development of online platforms and virtual exhibitions.
G.A: How does Art Roost position itself to stay at the forefront of contemporary art trends while maintaining its unique identity?
D.S: Art Roost positions itself at the forefront of contemporary art trends by remaining deeply connected to both local and global art scenes. We actively participate in art fairs, collaborate with international galleries, and engage with the broader art community through social media and online platforms. Simultaneously, we uphold our unique identity by focusing on our core mission: supporting young African artists and providing a space for their voices to be heard. We balance trend awareness with authenticity, ensuring that while we stay current, we never lose sight of the distinctive cultural narratives that define our gallery.
G.A: What are the primary challenges you’ve encountered in operating within the art space, and how have they been overcome?
D.S: Operating in the art space in Lagos presents several challenges, including limited funding, inadequate infrastructure, and the need to educate a broader audience about contemporary art. We have addressed these challenges through resourcefulness and community building. For example, we’ve partnered with other businesses to secure funding and resources. Additionally, we’ve engaged in grassroots marketing efforts to educate and connect with the community, hosting workshops and creating content that demystifies contemporary art. These initiatives have not only helped us overcome obstacles but also strengthened our connection with the local art scene.
G.A: How do you see contemporary art impacting society and culture in Lagos, and Nigeria as a whole; and what role does Art Roost play in fostering this influence?
D.S: Contemporary art in Lagos and Nigeria plays a crucial role in shaping societal narratives, offering a lens through which we explore and critique social, political, and cultural issues. It serves as a powerful tool for expression and reflection in a rapidly changing society. Art Roost contributes to this dynamic by providing a platform for artists to showcase work that both challenges and inspires. By curating exhibitions that resonate with current events and cultural shifts, we foster dialogue and engagement within the community. Our role is to amplify these voices and ensure that contemporary art remains a vital part of Nigeria’s cultural landscape.
G.A: How do you see the Art Roost Gallery evolving to meet the changing needs of artists, collectors, and audiences in Lagos and beyond?
D.S: The Art Roost Gallery will continue to evolve by staying responsive to the needs of our artists, collectors, and audiences. This includes expanding our digital footprint to offer more virtual experiences and international collaborations. We also plan to diversify our programming with additional educational initiatives, workshops, and artist residencies that provide value to our community. For collectors, we are exploring personalized services to help them discover and invest in emerging artists. By remaining adaptive and forward-thinking, Art Roost aims to stay relevant and impactful in the ever-changing art world.
G.A: How do you envision the contemporary art scene in Lagos and Africa evolving in the next 5-10 years?
D.S: In the next 5-10 years, I envision the contemporary art scene in Lagos and Africa becoming more globally integrated while preserving its unique cultural identity. We can anticipate a greater increase in the international recognition of African artists with more cross-continental collaborations and exhibitions. Art spaces will become more inclusive, featuring a broader range of voices from across the continent. Lagos, in particular, is set to solidify its role as a cultural capital, drawing art lovers and collectors from around the world.
G.A: What role do you see Art Roost playing in shaping this future?
D.S: Art Roost will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of contemporary art in Lagos and Africa by continuing to support and nurture emerging talent. We aim to lead in promoting African art on the global stage through strategic partnerships and innovative programming. By embracing new technologies and expanding our reach, we will ensure that artists have the platform they need to thrive. Our commitment to education, community building, and fostering creative expression will be central in our efforts in creating a vibrant and inclusive art future for Lagos and beyond.
For more information and updates on Dara and the Art Roost Gallery, visit the Instagram pages @darashonubi and @artroostgallery.
