The Benin Art Fair, a 10-day celebration of Edo’s art and culture, reclaims the region’s prominence in the global creative scene this November.
In a bid to rewrite the narrative surrounding Edo State and spotlight its rich artistic and cultural heritage, The Benin Art Fair (TBAF) is set to take centre stage in Benin City from November 29 to December 8.
The 10-day art festival, themed “Homage to the Red City”, promises a vibrant showcase of Edo State’s traditional and contemporary creative brilliance.
Held at Abstract Backyard, 33 Aiguobasimwin Crescent, G.R.A., Benin City, TBAF aims to re-establish Edo State as a premier arts and culture destination in Nigeria and Africa.
The event is a dynamic platform celebrating the state’s artistic legacy while fostering innovation among its traditional and avant-garde artists.
Director of The Benin Art Fair, Olorogun Jeff Ajueshi, emphasised the fair’s mission to challenge negative stereotypes associated with Edo State, such as violence, human trafficking, and other social vices.
Instead, TBAF will shine a spotlight on the state’s profound cultural contributions and establish its position on the global arts map.
“We want to rejuvenate Edo’s allure by showcasing its talent in traditional art and the international creative industries. This fair is a restoration process, placing Edo’s artistic and cultural sites in their rightful place on the global tourism map,” said Ajueshi.
The long-term goal of the fair, curated by Mr James Irabor, is to preserve and promote the cultural and artistic identity of Edo State. Ajueshi added that the event would create a lasting legacy, celebrating Edo’s history while encouraging investment in its cultural preservation.
The fair will feature a diverse array of activities, including:
- Antiques and cultural showcases highlighting Edo’s traditional art forms.
- Contemporary art exhibitions featuring local and international artists.
- Live wood sculpting and performance art displays.
- Discussions and workshops with renowned artists like Dr Bruce Onobrakpeya and Enotie Ogbebor.
- Panel discussions on topics such as art education, cultural preservation, and photography’s role in history.
- Benin Art Fair Concert Night, featuring Edo music legends.
This year’s fair is proudly supported by a host of sponsors, including Hyde Energy, Coronation, and the Edo State Government.
The Benin Art Fair aspires to position Edo State as a central player in the international art scene. According to Ajueshi, the event will generate revenue for the state while enhancing its reputation as a cultural hub.
“This festival is not just about celebration; it’s about evolution—transforming Edo into a cornerstone of the Nigerian art subsector and a major contributor to global cultural conversations,” he noted.
As Edo’s art and culture come alive this November, The Benin Art Fair represents a significant step toward reclaiming the state’s rightful place as a beacon of creativity and heritage in Africa and beyond.
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