ARTISTS CONNECT AFRICA 2025
Artist Connect Africa celebrates African artistry, collaboration, and creativity with panel discussions, keynote speeches, art exhibitions & networking opportunities.
Arrival of Guests (3:00 PM - 5:00 PM)
Red Carpet (5:00PM - 6:00 PM)
TALKS AND PANEL DISCUSSIONS
Venue: Helsinki Hall, Nordic Hotel
Time: 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
The first part of Artists Connect Africa 2025 will focus on insightful discussions and deep conversations.
Opening Prayer
Welcome Address (6:00 PM - 6:10 PM)
Speaker: Ken Nwadiogbu
An introduction to Artists Connect Africa, setting the tone for an evening of engagement and artistic exploration.Who We Are (6:10 PM - 6:20 PM)
Speaker: Dr. Foladavid
A deep dive into the mission and vision of Artists Connect Africa-its history, impact, and aspirations for the future.Keynote Speaker (6:20 PM - 6:30 PM)`
Speaker: Special Assistant to the President on Arts, Culture & Creative Economy: Ayo Adeagbo
Topic: Empowering the Nigerian Visual Artist
A discussion on government-driven programs, policies, and funding opportunities created to support Nigerian artists.Panel Discussion (6:30 PM - 6:50 PM)
Moderator: Sunshine Alaibe
Panelists: Jess Castellote, Nana Asumah Sonoiki, Victor Ehikhamenor
Topic: Maintaining Professionalism & Proper Documentation as an Artist
A crucial conversation about the importance of structuring an artist's career for long-term sustainability.Speaker (6:50 PM - 7:00 PM)
Speaker: Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture: Idris Aregbe
Topic: Artists and Their Role in Society
An exploration of how artists can shape narratives, challenge perspectives, and influence socio-political landscapes.Panel Discussion (7:00 PM - 7:20 PM)
Moderator: Sunshine Alaibe
Panelists: Arinze Stanley, Myles Igwebuike, Dotun Popoola
Topic: Artist Networking
Strategies for building relationships, collaborating, and expanding artistic influence across borders.Special Guest Speaker (7:20 PM - 7:30 PM)
Speaker: Speaker: Director General, National Gallery of Arts: Ahmed Sodangi
A discussion on the National Gallery’s initiative for Nigerian visual artistVote of Thanks by Ken Nwadiogbu & Dr. Foladavid
EXHIBITION
Venue: Helsinki Hall, Nordic Hotel
Time: 7:25 PM - LATE
This exhibition will showcase an exclusive collection of paintings, sculptures, and photography, emphasizing the depth and innovation of African contemporary art.
Curator: Princess Ayoola
Exhibiting Artists: Ken Nwadiogbu (Painting), Dr. Foladavid (Painting), Ayanfe Olarinde (Painting), Arinze Stanley (Painting), and Dotun Popoola (Sculpture)
COCKTAIL AND LIVE EXPERIENCE
Venue: Poolside, Nordic Hotel
Time: 7:30 PM - LATE
Host: Hyenana
DJ: Ayanfe and Black Culture
As the night unfolds, Artists Connect Africa 2025 transitions into an exciting cocktail and networking experience, with special performances offering attendees a more relaxed environment to connect and celebrate.