Visual Art Competition celebrates 20 years in Abuja as Spanish Embassy and Nigerian artists mark decades of creativity and cultural collaboration
Visual Art Competition reached a remarkable milestone on Thursday night as the Pyramid Art Gallery in Abuja hosted a glittering celebration of its 20th anniversary a testament to two decades of artistic collaboration between the Spanish Embassy and Nigeria’s vibrant creative community.
This year’s edition, themed “Building a Common Heritage through Art,” drew artists, diplomats, and cultural enthusiasts who gathered to honour a partnership that has helped bridge two cultures through visual storytelling.
Spanish Ambassador to Nigeria, Félix Costales, lauded the event’s impact, noting that African creativity particularly black and Afro-descendant art continues to gain strong international recognition, especially in major cities like London.
He emphasised that art is not only about creation but about how artists “portray themselves as artists in life.”
Deputy Head of Mission, María Higón, reflected on the competition’s modest beginnings in 2006 and its transformation into a platform that has spotlighted hundreds of emerging Nigerian talents.
“Two decades of creativity, collaboration and cultural exchange have exceeded by far our initial expectations,” she said, describing it as “a motivation for many emerging artists who, awarded or not, get visibility and exposure during the exhibition.”
This year’s competition showcased 23 remarkable artworks, with Lagos-based painter Olamilekan Akinsola taking the top prize for his piece ‘Sarah’s Eulogy.’ Beaming with pride, Akinsola said, “I feel so excited today. My advice for the youth is to keep working and do not give up.”
The second and third prizes went to Viroro Abeke for ‘Melodies of Moonlight’ and Bolu Oka for ‘Marks of Heritage,’ respectively.
President of the Society of Nigerian Artists, Mohammed Sulaiman, praised the Visual Art Competition as a powerful example of sustained international collaboration that has “enriched both the Nigerian and Spanish art landscapes.”
Past winner Helen Nzete described her victory as “a step in the right direction” and urged young creatives to remain authentic and consistent in their art.
Similarly, finalist Agbaka Oryiman said the recognition was “amazing” and encouraged youths to “wake up and chase your dreams.”
After 20 inspiring years, the Visual Art Competition continues to stand as a shining example of how art can unite nations, nurture young talent, and build a shared heritage through creativity and cultural understanding.
Business3 years ago
