By Damiete Braide
For the second consecutive year, Soto Gallery has successfully hosted the +234 Art Fair, an event designed to champion the patronage and recognition of Nigerian artists.
Held from March 26 to 31, 2025, at Victoria Island, Lagos, the fair was organised in collaboration with Ecobank Nigeria Limited, Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), and its main sponsor, Craneburg Construction. With the theme, “Championing Patronage in Nigerian Art,” this year’s edition aimed to highlight the crucial role of support in sustaining and advancing the local art scene.
The +234 Art Fair serves as a significant platform for emerging and unrepresented Nigerian artists, offering them an opportunity to showcase their work on both local and international stages. The event attracted a vibrant mix of collectors, enthusiasts, and institutions committed to fostering a thriving artistic ecosystem in Nigeria.
During the fair, founder Tola Akerele emphasised the importance of creating a support system for artists, particularly through mentorship, financial assistance, and exposure. “Patronage means support,” Akerele stated. “There are many ways to support artists beyond purchasing their works. Providing them with exhibition spaces, mentorship opportunities, and financial resources are all critical in ensuring their growth. Nigeria has an abundance of talented artists, and we must encourage them by giving them the necessary platforms to succeed.”
The fair received over 1,000 applications from artists across Nigeria, with only 160 selected based on their exceptional talent and creativity. According to Akerele, the quality of Nigerian artists is among the best in Africa, and their works are increasingly gaining global recognition. “Since many of these artists are emerging, their prices are still accessible compared to international exhibitions. This presents a great investment opportunity for collectors while also giving young artists the chance to gain a foothold in the market,” she added.
A key highlight of this year’s fair was the introduction of the Children’s Gallery, a dedicated space showcasing artwork by young talents. Schools from across Lagos brought students to the fair, allowing them to engage with the world of art and explore potential career paths in the creative industry.
The Children’s Gallery featured 24 canvas paintings by young artists, including 12-year-old Olujimi Oni, who impressed attendees with his depictions of flags, symbols, and crests. The initiative aimed to instill confidence in young artists by demonstrating that their work holds value and potential in the professional art world.
The fair was segmented into various creative sections, including Digital Art, Photography, 3D Sculpture, 2D Fine Arts, and Traditional Artworks. This classification allowed visitors to experience the diversity of Nigerian artistic expression and appreciate the innovation emerging within these fields.
Ecobank Nigeria played a significant role in supporting the fair, reinforcing its commitment to empowering the creative sector. According to Omoboye Odu, Head of SME, Partnership, and Collaboration at Ecobank Nigeria, the bank has recognised the potential of Nigeria’s art industry and is actively creating platforms that allow SMEs, including artists, to transition from local players to global contenders.
“We have seen the success of Afrobeats, Nollywood, and now the art industry. The global art market is valued at approximately $70 billion, with North America holding the largest share. Our goal is to reposition the Nigerian art scene as a dominant force within this space,” Odu said.
She further explained that Ecobank provides artists with financial literacy and market exposure, ensuring that they not only create exceptional art but also learn how to commercialise their talent effectively. “This partnership with Soto Gallery, now in its second year, has demonstrated the impact we can make in helping young artists and galleries thrive,” she noted.
Corporate sponsorship for the fair saw a significant boost this year, with support from major organisations such as The Osa Okunbo Foundation, Glenfiddich, Tiger, and Odujinrin & Adefulu. The Nigerian government, through the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, also endorsed the event, further solidifying its importance within the nation’s cultural landscape.
Attendees were treated to an array of artistic expressions, from paintings and sculptures to photography and digital works. Additionally, the fair hosted masterclasses, workshops, live art demonstrations, and networking opportunities, all of which elevated the experience compared to the inaugural edition. This year’s programming was enriched by high-caliber speakers and industry experts who provided valuable insights into the evolving art market.
The venue, Ecobank Pan African Centre, provided ample space for showcasing artwork, facilitating discussions, and hosting networking sessions. Its well-designed layout ensured seamless access to different exhibits and activities, creating an inviting atmosphere for art lovers and industry professionals alike.
Ultimately, every element of the +234 Art Fair was carefully curated to align with this year’s theme of patronage. The event underscored the need for meaningful support structures that empower artists and elevate Nigerian art on the global stage. As the fair continues to grow, it is poised to become a cornerstone of Nigeria’s art industry, fostering a culture of appreciation, investment, and innovation within the creative community.