Benin Art Fair to correct negative narratives– Organisers
The Benin Art Fair (T-BAF) is aimed at correcting the negative narratives about Edo, its culture, heritage and people, say the organisers.
Jeff Ajueshi, Director, TBAF, in a statement on Saturday, said that the art festival, its maiden edition, was also designed to promote the culture, artists and other creatives of Edo.
Ajueshi said that Edo’s current situation must be reformed away from morbid stigmatisation of various nefarious social vices that had overshadowed the sustained artistic and cultural legacies of the state.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the festival is slated to hold from Nov. 29 to Dec. 8, at the GRA, Benin.
NAN also reports that T-BAF is an art festival designed to promote the culture, artists and other creatives of Edo.
“The ten-day event aims to reclaim Edo’s prominence in the contemporary art discourse within Nigeria and across Africa.
“It is also to honour Edo’s rich artistic heritage while providing a platform for traditional and contemporary artists from the region.
“T-BAF seeks to bring the world’s attention to the state’s exceptional creative culture, redefining the narrative of its unique artistic legacy,” he said.
Ajueshi noted that the festival, with the theme ‘Homage To The Red City’, promised to serve as a dynamic platform that celebrates the unique artistic history, traditional art practices and innovations of the state’s rich cultural heritage.
According to him, the festival will feature activities including antiques and cultural showcases, contemporary art exhibitions, photo festivals, amongst others.
Ajueshi said that the long-term objective of the fair, which would be curated by Mr James Irabor, was to rejig a restoration process that would reposition the creative culture of Edo, particularly its artistic and cultural sites.
“We intend to rekindle the dwindling charm and allure of this ancient city by highlighting its ability to produce top talents in the local traditional art practices and the international creative industries.
“This project is significant because it allows us to bring the beautiful experiences of international art shows and cultural events we have witnessed to the delectation of our people,” he said.
Ajueshi noted that the event would be supported by the Edo State Government, Hyde Energy, Abstract Backyard, Abstract Restaurant, amonst others.
