The African art industry is set to converge in Lagos this December for the highly anticipated Wo'Ama Art Business Conference 2024, a transformative platform designed to bridge the gap between art and business. Scheduled to hold on December 3, 2024, at Alliance Française in Ikoyi, Lagos, the conference runs from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM under the theme, "Art Business & Beyond: Navigating the Business of Art from an African Viewpoint."
In an era where the African art industry is experiencing exponential growth, the Wo'Ama Business Conference is positioning itself as a catalyst for sustainable practices, innovation, and global competitiveness. This full-day event will convene artists, curators, gallerists, cultural administrators, and policymakers to address the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of the sector.
A Platform for Strategic Engagement
The Wo'Ama Business Conference promises robust discussions, workshops, and unparalleled networking opportunities. From navigating career longevity to advocating for increased public funding for the arts, the event’s agenda is tailored to tackle critical pain points in Africa’s art ecosystem.
One of the conference’s focal points is the exploration of practical strategies to strengthen the financial sustainability of African art. Sessions on innovative funding models—including corporate sponsorships, philanthropy, and international grants—aim to equip attendees with tools to thrive in a competitive global market.
Highlights of the Day
Participants can expect an array of thought-provoking panel discussions and immersive workshops. Key sessions include:
Museums, Galleries & Art Centres: A deep dive into career opportunities in the art world, from curation to administration, and strategies for thriving in these roles.
Pre-Colonial Nigerian Art: A session showcasing the enduring influence of Nok art, Benin bronzes, and other traditional art forms on contemporary African art.
Art Meets Government: Insights into advocating for public funding for the arts and fostering stronger partnerships with African governments.
Financing the Arts: Discussions on leveraging corporate sponsorships, philanthropy, and international grants to transform the arts landscape.
These discussions aim to foster greater understanding and engagement within the industry while encouraging policy shifts to address challenges such as limited government support and a lack of structured financing for the arts.
Seasoned practitioners and stakeholders who will speak at the event include:
Tola Akerele (Soto Gallery, GM/CEO National Theatre), Dolly Kola-Balogun (Retro Africa gallery), Wura Ogunji (artist/performer), Olufisayo Bakare (Interior Designer), Ugoma Ebilah (Bloom art), Jubril Enakele (Corporate Finance and Financial Advisory) Oyinda Faithful (Center for Contemporary Art), Jess Castelotte (Yemisi Shyllon Musuem), Moni Aisida (Guest Artists Space (G.A.S.) Foundation) and Mathew Oyedele(Curator and art historian).
Networking for Impact
Beyond the panels and workshops, the conference offers invaluable networking opportunities. Emerging artists will connect with cultural administrators, while gallerists and art institutions can exchange ideas on advancing their practices.
Attendees will also explore the untapped potential of public funding in Africa, with stakeholders strategizing on how to make the arts a priority for governments. The conference’s inclusive approach underscores the importance of preserving Africa’s rich artistic heritage while embracing modern business strategies.
Shaping the Future of African Art
With the African art market gaining traction on the global stage, events like the Wo'Ama Business Conference are essential for equipping industry players with the tools and insights needed to remain competitive. The conference’s focus on sustainability, growth, and collaboration makes it a cornerstone for anyone invested in the business of art on the continent.
As the countdown begins, the Wo'Ama Business Conference promises not just conversations but actionable steps toward a thriving African art industry. For stakeholders across the art value chain, this is an opportunity not to be missed. Get your tickets to the most important art business conference of the year.
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