For the first time in the history of Venice Biennale, Italy, an international art exhibition, Nigeria will participate in this year’s Biennale opening between May 13 and November 26. However, Nigeria needs about N400million to participate in the fiesta, according to the organaisers. But, Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki is the official commissioner of Nigeria In Venice.
Three Nigerian artists Victor Ehikhamenor, Peju Alatise and Kudus Onikeku have been selected by the organizers of Nigeria In Venice to showcase installations, paintings and performances at the Nigerian pavilion on the theme: How About Now.
Curator of Nigeria In Venice, Adenrele Sonariwo, who spoke in Lagos yesterday confirmed Nigeria’s participation in the art fiesta, noting that Nigeria has broken the jinx of not participating in the Biennale since its inception decades ago.
She stated that the works by the artists would be conversations about Nigeria of the past and today in relation with the theme: How About Now. Ehikhamenor will exhibit a large scale work Biography of the forgotten one. Alatise will show a work on an installation on a 10-year-old girl. Onikeku’s performance is titled Right Here, Right Now.
Steering Committee member, Ike Chioke said Nigeria needs about N400million to participate in the biennale and that it has gotten over half way mark. He also called on corporate Nigerians for support, adding that it has been a journey supported by private individuals.
But, Curator of Venice Biennale, Christine Macel in a statement explained the art project as follows: ”In a world full of conflicts and jolts, in which humanism is being seriously jeopardised, art is the most precious part of the human being. It is the ideal place for reflection, individual expression, freedom and fundamental questions. It is a “yes” to life, although sometimes a “but” lies behind. More than ever, the role, the voice and the responsibility of the artist are crucial in the framework of contemporary debates.