Access Holdings, in collaboration with ART X Lagos, recently awarded the first-ever “Access ART X Prize Alumni Impact Award” to Nigerian photographer Etinosa Yvonne. The award, presented at the VIP Preview of ART X Lagos, is designed to honour former prize winners who have made significant contributions to contemporary African art since the launch of the ART X Prize in 2016.
Recognized as one of Africa’s most respected art prizes, the Access ART X Prize has become a prominent platform for emerging African artists, supporting their creative development and also promoting their work internationally. This year, ART X Lagos introduced the Alumni Impact Award in line with its 2024 theme, “Promised Lands,” which highlights themes of hope, freedom, as well as new artistic possibilities. The award aims to recognize artists whose work continues to shape African cultural narratives and resonates on a global level.
Roosevelt Ogbonna, Managing Director and CEO of Access Bank Plc, underscored the institution’s ongoing commitment to empowering the creative sector. “Through partnerships like the Access ART X Prize, we’re working to foster an ecosystem where African creativity thrives,” he also stated.
This sentiment aligns with Access Holdings’ approach to social impact, as the company expands its support for the African art community beyond traditional corporate frameworks.
ART X Lagos founder, Tokini Peterside-Schwebig, emphasized the fair’s commitment to nurturing African artists at all stages of their careers. By awarding Yvonne, the organization further seeks to highlight the ongoing impact of previous winners and encourage sustained engagement with contemporary African art.
In response, Yvonne expressed her gratitude, emphasizing the importance of sustained support for Nigeria’s growing creative economy. She also highlighted the critical role of public and private investment in elevating Nigerian art on the world stage, noting that such support can strengthen the local cultural sector.
The introduction of the Alumni Impact Award marks another step by ART X Lagos toward amplifying African voices in the global art landscape, offering past winners a platform to inspire the next generation of African artists.
