The first edition of The Benin Art Fair, T-BAF, will take place from November 29 to December 8, 2024 at Abstract Backyard, Aiguobasimwin Crescent, G.R.A., Benin City, Edo State. The fair aims to reclaim Edo State’s prominence in the contemporary art discourse in Nigeria and across Africa, as well as honour the state’s rich artistic heritage.
At a recent press conference in Lagos to promote TBAF, Adetiloye Oluwatosin Jekami, National Programs Director of Thought Pyramid Art Centre, it was said that the fair’s organisers “want to use TBAF to restore Benin City’s artistic prestige.” There are numerous things happening in Benin, but they are not widely documented.
The essence of the fair is also to honour the masters.” Adetiloye stated that the fair will also feature young artists who were born, live in, or create in Benin. “The goal is to show people the level at which art is evolving in Benin.When we talk of (Benin) art, people think of the bronze heads. This art fair aims to raise awareness that Benin isn’t all about old school.”
TBAF’s mission and vision are to revitalise Edo State’s creative culture, establishing it as a premier global arts and culture destination; to elevate Edo State’s international reputation for artistic talent, emphasising its contributions to both the local and global art scenes; and to reshape the global narrative around Edo State’s artistic heritage and contemporary achievements.
The Benin Art Fair is scheduled to begin with a private viewing on November 29 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., allowing invited attendees to have an exclusive glimpse. From November 30 to December 8, public viewing will be available daily from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. On November 30, there will be live wood sculpture and performance art.
Eminent artists, including Dr. Bruce Onobrakpeya and Enotie Ogbebor, will provide keynote speeches and lead conversations about linking traditional and contemporary art techniques. There will also be panel talks about art education, cultural preservation, and the role of photography in documenting history.
Benin Art Fair Concert Night will take place on December 7 at 7:00 p.m., including legendary Edo music icons. The event will also include antique and cultural shows, modern art exhibitions, and a photography festival. There will be free sip and paint on December 1 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
The Benin Art Fair is sponsored by Hyde Energy, Abstract Backyard, Abstract Restaurant, Thought Pyramid Art Centre, Coronation, Platform, Gramen Petroserve, Kellog Tolaram, Trustbanc, The Lakeyard Cultural Centre, Prime Agro Seeds, Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Tourism Edo State, Edo State Government, The Osa Okunbo Foundation, Stella Stars Sports Academy Benin City, AK&CO., Daz Teea Cosmetics, and others.
