All set for AAF annual art competition

Speaking at a press briefing, Mr. Azu Nwagbogu, founder of the AAF said following last year’s formula when emphasis shifted from the finished products to the process of by-products to the creation, this year’s event will involve another new innovation. “We will continue with a new method where we challenge the artists to put their […]

Speaking at a press briefing, Mr. Azu Nwagbogu, founder of the AAF said following last year’s formula when emphasis shifted from the finished products to the process of by-products to the creation, this year’s event will involve another new innovation. “We will continue with a new method where we challenge the artists to put their ideas into writing as they attempt to interpret the theme. This will serve as the initial proposal which will be entered in for the competition. Based on the submitted proposals, twelve finalists will be shortlisted and invited to partake in a retreat at an exclusive location which will result in the creation of works to be exhibited at the grand finale.”

Nwagbogu said that the theme was chosen because it is very broad and interesting as well as has multiple interpretations. “We don’t want to restrict the artists in their creative ideas. We want them to feel free to express themselves.”

The AAF director said it was necessary to apply new methods this time because, they would like the artists to take more time to conceptualise their creative ideas, hence a shift from product to process. “It is long debated about which is more significant: the process of art or the product, we think both and now have decided to place more emphasis on the processes of making art. This way, we are able to document and support the creativity that goes into making art,” he said.

The themes have been carefully chosen from the beginning. “From the first outing where we had ‘The Unbreakable Nigerian Spirit’ to this, all our themes have a strong social message for the nation. Consequences are about the consequences of positive or negative actions, reaping what we sow. This is the idea we have for this edition. We look out for creativity, innovation and authenticity with a creative approach. Artists are not restricted to any traditional media and can use whatever medium they choose.”

Mrs. Medina Dugger, Project Coordinator/Assistant Curator of the foundation told journalists that works of last year’s winners have been featured in recent auctions and that all interested artists are welcome regardless of age and professionalism.  “If an amateur impresses the judges with his proposal he will have an equal opportunity as a professional.”

She emphasised that all works must be started during the retreat and any pre-done pieces will be disqualified.

This year, renowned sculptor, Prof. El Anatsui will head the selection committee as deadline for submission is June 22. Winners will receive ₦2,000,000 for the first place, ₦1,500,000 and ₦1,000,000 for the second and third places respectively.