Generating employment through artworks

Practising artists also acknowledge that the profession is a lucrative one and want the government to further strengthen the sector. An Abuja-based artist, Mr Gbenga Sentoris, says artworks, if properly harnessed by the government, can generate about two million jobs. Sentoris says artwork has brought him a fortune and describes it as a “lucrative venture […]

Practising artists also acknowledge that the profession is a lucrative one and want the government to further strengthen the sector.

An Abuja-based artist, Mr Gbenga Sentoris, says artworks, if properly harnessed by the government, can generate about two million jobs.

Sentoris says artwork has brought him a fortune and describes it as a “lucrative venture which requires a lot of patience.

“I am surprised when I see some of my colleagues in the profession ending up as teachers; you must endure to make a breakthrough.’’

Sentoris notes that “Nigerians appreciate artworks if they are good”and  would  not mind paying for them as “good artwork sells faster”’.

Mrs Gloria Asare, a Ghanaian, scores Nigeria’s artworks high. Asare who deals in ceramic pots and clothing, says that she “makes the highest sales in Nigeria.’’

“I can say that Nigeria is my biggest market. She also praises Nigerians for cherishing their culture.’’

Mr Stephen Eruada, Public Relations Officer, Art and Crafts Village, Abuja says that the Federal Government should put the necessary measures in place to exploit the huge potential of art and crafts to boost economic growth.

“There is no way Nigeria would industrialise without artwork in the lead.”

He notes that Nigeria as a country has experts in the art industry who can not only think, but also be creative.

Eruada says that the cars, ear-rings and even the shoes we wear, are all artistic works and that the government should do everything within its powers to encourage the growth of the sector.

Mr Abdullahi Muku, Director-General, National Gallery of Art, restates that promotion of artwork would help diversify the Nigerian economy.

The director-general says the diversification of the country’s economy through the promotion of art and culture is in line with the Federal Government’s Transformation Agenda.

“We paid visits to most of the embassies requesting that we do an art promotion together; I am grateful that this has come to fruition.

“The Nigerian Government would want to see a situation where we can improve on this exhibition and make a travelling exhibition to participating countries.’’

Jaques de Labriolle, French Ambassador to Nigeria, notes that China took the leadership position in an art market in 2011 in Nigeria because of its interest in artwork.

He urges Nigeria to take advantage of the vast opportunities in the market to diversify its source of income.

“There is no state in Nigeria which does not have within its universities or polytechnics, a faculty or school dedicated to artistic education and with such structured environments, lie  the strength of Nigerian creativity.’’