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The event was led by The Honourable Minister of Finance and
Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, emphasizing the
significance of art as a multifaceted asset class that fosters wealth
generation and socio-economic progress. Edun's participation underscored the
vital impact of cultural investments in building a sustainable future.
Notable attendees included Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede CFR,
Chairman of Coronation Group; Gbenga Oyebode MFR, Chairman of Aluko &
Oyebode; Dere Otubu, Chairman of Eko Electricity Distribution Company; and Femi
Okunsanya, Chairman of First Ally Capital.
They were joined by esteemed female art collectors whose
works were showcased, such as Funmi Oyetunji, Dolores Odogwu-Edgal, Tinuade
Awe, Grace Osime, Sola Carrena, Nwakaego Boyo, Lanre Shasore, Bimpe Nkontchou,
Dudun Peterside, Freda Isingoma, Toyin Odulate, and Adia Sowho.
Curated by the acclaimed Ugoma Ebilah, this innovative
exhibition celebrated the contributions of women within the Arts and Culture
sector, reflecting Coronation's dedication to gender inclusivity and cultural
empowerment.
This year's exhibition is part of the organization's wider
initiative to elevate the voices of African women and to showcase their
essential roles in advancing the continent.
Founded in May 2022 under the visionary guidance of Aigboje
Aig-Imoukhuede, the Coronation Art Gallery was established to democratize
access to art, with a strong emphasis on fostering a profound appreciation for
African art and culture.
The gallery seeks to connect art with the public by offering
a platform that showcases the richness of African creativity while promoting
greater engagement with the continent's cultural heritage.
Ngozi Akinyele, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer
at Coronation, highlighted the importance of the initiative during her address
at the exhibition; “At Coronation, we are deeply committed to embedding gender
inclusivity in all our initiatives. This exhibition underscores our dedication
to amplifying women’s voices while promoting responsible cultural practices.”
Akinyele added, “We are incredibly proud to have
collaborated with such extraordinary women for this exhibition. Through this
initiative, we hope to inspire future generations of art lovers, collectors,
and creators to engage with African art and its powerful role in shaping our
collective future.
The event attracted prominent personalities from the
entertainment sector, including the acclaimed musician Jude Abaga, known as
M.I. The evening was hosted by media figure Folu Storms, while the all-female
ensemble Genial Sound provided an enchanting live performance, seamlessly
merging music and art in a vibrant celebration of culture.
Coronation Art Gallery has established itself as a pivotal
venue for artistic expression and cultural dialogue. As Yemi Sadiku, MD/CEO of
Coronation Trustees, highlighted during the event, the organization is
committed to making the arts accessible to all, allowing both collectors and
the general public to engage with cultural masterpieces in significant ways.
The gallery exhibition is currently open to the public,
presenting a distinctive chance for art enthusiasts to discover and appreciate
the remarkable works on display.