Expert tasks govt. on support for visual arts to grow forex earnings
Ayoola Mudasiru, the Head of Design, Arts Department, Lagos State Council for Arts and Culture (LSCAC), says Nigeria’s visual arts sector can create jobs, drive tourism and earn foreign exchange with deliberate support and investment.
Mudasiru, in an interview with the News reporters on Saturday in Lagos, said that poor recognition and support had limited the sector’s contribution to the economy, in spite of the rising global demand for African art and culture.
“There is money in art if it is properly packaged and promoted.
“The challenge is that the sector is not receiving the attention and investment it deserves,” he said.
He noted that several Nigerian artists had gained international recognition and sold artworks worth thousands of dollars abroad.
He said the development underscored the industry’s economic potential.
According to him, stronger government support through exhibitions, cultural exchanges and international promotion would help artists access global markets while attracting foreign investors to the country.
“We have lots of talented artists in Nigeria.
“What we need is visibility and platforms that will expose our works to international audiences,” he said.
Mudasiru said increased investment in the sector would create employment opportunities for artists, curators, gallery managers, art educators, designers and craftsmen, while also stimulating growth in tourism, hospitality and event management.
He urged governments to use Nigerian embassies and cultural missions abroad as platforms for showcasing local artworks and promoting the country’s cultural heritage.
He said programmes such as the Lagos State Festival for Arts and Culture should be strengthened to expand artistic and tourism opportunities.
“The visual arts sector has the capacity to create jobs, earn foreign exchange and improve Nigeria’s image globally.
“What is needed is deliberate support and recognition from the government and other stakeholders,” he said.