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From Ighomuaye Lucky, Benin
Artists, curators, writers and art enthusiasts have converged on the Black Muse Sculpture Park in Benin City for the second edition of the Black Muse Art Festival, an event showcasing artistic excellence, celebrating cultural heritage and promoting creative expression.
Founded by renowned Nigerian artist and author Victor Ehikhamenor, the festival brought together a rich blend of artistic talents and cultural expressions through exhibitions, workshops, music and traditional performances, while providing a platform for creative exchange and recognising outstanding artistic achievements.
In his opening remarks, the founder and convener, Ehikhamenor, expressed appreciation to the participating artists, guests and art enthusiasts for their support, reaffirming his commitment to sustaining the festival and expanding its reach as a platform for artistic expression, cultural dialogue and creative collaboration.
Speaking on the concept behind the exhibition, the curator of the sculpture exhibition and pavilion designer said the displayed artworks offered visitors an opportunity to explore art from different perspectives, while gaining insight into the ideas, narratives and creative processes that shaped each piece.
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The festival also featured guided tours of the exhibitions, an Esan cultural performance and an Edo musical presentation by Onye and the Beatoven Collective, creating a vibrant fusion of traditional heritage and contemporary artistic expression.
One of the major highlights was the presentation of the Black Muse Patron’s Prize, which recognised an exceptional artistic work that captured the spirit of the festival’s 2026 theme, “For Those Who Astonish the Gods.”
The second edition of the festival further underscored the role of art in preserving cultural identity, stimulating intellectual engagement and inspiring creative innovation.
It also reinforced Benin City’s growing reputation as an important destination for artistic exploration, cultural exchange and creative expression.
