G.A.S. Foundation and the Yinka Shonibare Foundation have announced the artists selected for the 2025 edition of the Ìmòra Arts Intensive – an initiative named after the Yoruba words Ìmòra (support, guidance, mentorship) and ìmò ẹkọ (knowledge, skill-building).
Following an open call that attracted over 100 applications, a panel of esteemed judges reviewed all submissions and selected ten outstanding participants. This year’s panel comprised G.A.S. Executive Director Moni Aisida; artist and educator Polly Alakija; artist and curator Temitayo Ogunbiyi; curator Ann Marie Peña; and gallery founder Tola Akerele.
The selected artists for the 2025 programme are: Amadi Chukwuemeka, Anaghoba Oluchi, Apah Benson, Bello Oladele, Emore Yoma, Jolaolu Moyosore, Nwafor Chidimma, Okwudini Noah, Lawal Ololade, and also Lawal Oyewole.
These artists will participate in a one-week intensive workshop at G.A.S. Lagos, where they will engage in practical sessions led by experienced professionals. Workshop topics will include writing successful funding applications, developing project proposals, crafting compelling artist statements, and effectively documenting their work. The programme will also explore how to navigate both local and international art networks.
In addition to the selected artists, the panel also shortlisted nine promising applicants: Anachuna Victor, Eluṣadé Tolúwalọpẹ́, Fab-Uche Valerie, Nnoli Amarachi, Oba-Fidelis David, Onadipe Oluwayemisi, Osanyintolu Timilehin, Ozoemena Nzubechukwu, and Ugoala Uzor.
The programme equips early-career artists with the tools to refine their practice, gain professional skills, and build meaningful connections in the art ecosystem. The Ìmòra Arts Intensive forms part of Project Nexus, a three-year initiative aimed at supporting artists, curators, and educators through residencies and training opportunities. Both the Ìmòra Arts Intensive and Project Nexus are generously supported by Deutsche Bank.
