Attractions, and History of Nike Art Gallery Lagos

Nike Art Gallery is a prominent art gallery located in Lagos, Nigeria. Established in 2008 by the renowned artist and designer Nike Davies-Okundaye, the gallery serves as a platform for exhibiting and promoting contemporary Nigerian art.

The gallery features a vast collection of traditional Nigerian art, including textiles, paintings, sculptures, and beadwork. Exhibitions, workshops, and get-togethers are to exhibit the creations of fresh and established artists from Nigeria and beyond.

Nike Davies-Okundaye, also known as Mama Nike, is a highly respected artist and textile designer promoting Nigerian art and culture for over four decades. She earned multiple awards for displaying her art in various global locations.

In addition to the main gallery in Lagos, Nike Art Gallery has branches in Abuja and Osogbo. The gallery has become a popular destination for tourists, art collectors, and enthusiasts interested in learning more about Nigerian art and culture.

The Nike Art Gallery in Lagos is a three-story building that houses a vast collection of artworks from different regions of Nigeria.

The gallery's ground floor features extensive textiles, including adire, aso-oke, and kente fabrics. Visitors can watch demonstrations of the traditional dyeing and weaving techniques used to create these textiles.

The second and third floors of the gallery showcase an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and beadwork. The display of art features a mixture of old and new styles. Numerous discussions revolve around personal identity, past occurrences, and moral principles prevalent in society.

Nike Art Gallery is a space for exhibiting art and serves as a center for art education and community development. The gallery offers workshops and training programs for aspiring artists and entrepreneurs, providing them with the skills and resources they need to succeed in the creative industries.

Moreover, the gallery has been instrumental in preserving and promoting Nigeria's cultural heritage. Nike Davies-Okundaye, the gallery's founder, passionately advocates keeping traditional Nigerian art forms and techniques.

She has been instrumental in reviving the dying art of adire (tie-dye) in Nigeria, training young artists in traditional craft techniques, and promoting it globally. The gallery also supports local communities by providing employment opportunities for young artists and artisans.

Many artworks displayed at the gallery are sourced directly from local communities, providing a sustainable income for the artists and supporting the local economy. Nike Art Gallery has received several awards and recognitions for its contributions to the art world and Nigerian culture.

In 2010, the gallery won an award as the best art gallery in Nigeria at the National Tourism Awards. Through her efforts in supporting Nigerian art and culture, Nike Davies-Okundaye received a prestigious prize from UNESCO in 2011. Today, Nike Art Gallery is a must-visit destination for Nigerian art, culture, and history.

What to Do When at Nike Art Gallery

Here are some of the activities you can enjoy at the Nike Art Gallery:

1. Art Exhibitions: The gallery displays various Nigerian art, including paintings, sculptures, textiles, and ceramics. Visitors can view the artwork and learn about the history and culture behind them.

2. Art Classes: Nike Art Gallery offers art classes for adults and children. Visitors can learn different art techniques, such as painting, drawing, and sculpture, from professional artists.

3. Shopping: The gallery has a vast collection of art pieces available for purchase. Visitors can buy souvenirs, paintings, sculptures, textiles, and other art pieces to take back home.

4. Cultural Performances: The gallery occasionally hosts cultural performances, such as traditional dance, music, and drama, showcasing Nigeria's rich cultural heritage.

5. Guided Tours: Visitors can take a guided tour of the gallery, which includes a detailed explanation of the artwork, history, and culture behind them.

6. Artistic Events: The gallery hosts artistic events, such as art exhibitions, book readings, and film screenings, providing a platform for artists to showcase their talents.

7. Refreshments: Nike Art Gallery has a rooftop restaurant that serves local and continental dishes. Visitors can enjoy delicious meals and drinks while taking in the breathtaking views of Lagos.

In addition to its impressive collection and community-focused initiatives, Nike Art Gallery is a popular venue for events and exhibitions. The gallery has hosted several high-profile events, including art exhibitions, musical performances, fashion shows, and cultural festivals. The gallery's spacious rooftop terrace provides a stunning backdrop for outdoor events and offers panoramic views of Lagos and its surroundings.

The gallery also offers a unique shopping experience for visitors, with a range of handcrafted items available for purchase. Visitors can browse through a selection of textiles, sculptures, beadwork, and other artworks, all made by local artists and artisans.

Nike Art Gallery has become an essential cultural institution in Nigeria and a shining example of the power of art to inspire, educate, and empower communities. Through its many initiatives and programs, the gallery has helped to preserve and promote Nigeria's rich cultural heritage while providing opportunities for young artists and entrepreneurs to thrive.

Whether you are an art enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or simply looking for a unique experience, a visit to Nike Art Gallery will surely be memorable. The gallery's welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff create a warm and inviting environment for visitors of all ages and backgrounds.

The gallery is open seven days a week, and admission is free, making it accessible to everyone who wants to experience the beauty and diversity of Nigerian art and culture. In addition, the gallery offers guided tours and workshops for those who want to learn more about the history and techniques of traditional Nigerian art forms.

Overall, Nike Art Gallery is a true gem in the heart of Lagos and a testament to the Nigerian people's creativity, resilience, and spirit. It is a place where art and culture come together to inspire, educate, and transform lives. It is a shining example of the power of community-driven initiatives to impact society positively.

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