Professor Onobrakpeya, a trailblazer in contemporary African art, is the recipient of the esteemed Smithsonian Lifetime Achievement Award and the UNESCO Living Human Treasure Award. Renowned for his ability to seamlessly integrate African spirituality, cultural heritage, and contemporary artistic methods, his work serves as a source of inspiration for countless artists, collectors, and cultural aficionados worldwide.
The ceremony will feature a distinguished assembly of prominent figures from the art world and cultural sectors, including Dr. Perkins Foss, a renowned art historian, Mr. Aki Debayo Doherty, a highly regarded global art collector, and Lauren Tate Baeza, the curator of "The Mask and the Cross," who will be traveling from Atlanta to attend.
Additionally, the event will host alumni from St. Gregory’s College North America, notable members of the Nigerian diaspora, and elite art collectors, all coming together to celebrate Professor Onobrakpeya’s exceptional impact on art and culture.
In reflecting on this honor, Professor Onobrakpeya expressed:
“Art has been my lifelong journey of connecting history, spirituality, and humanity. Being honoured by the National Museum of African Art is a profound milestone, and I hope this exhibition continues to inspire a deeper appreciation of African culture worldwide.”
The event represents the culmination of several months of careful planning, spearheaded by Dr. Mudiare Onobrakpeya, Kagbare Onobrakpeya Rowland, and their team based in Atlanta. Their dedication also involved organizing exhibitions at the High Museum of Art in Atlanta and the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art in Washington, D.C.
Professor Onobrakpeya’s distinguished career exemplifies the transformative influence of art. His creations cross cultural and geographical divides, delivering a timeless message of unity and creativity.