Access Holdings and ART X Collective have officially opened the Access ART X Prize 2023 entry call. The winners of the Art X Prize will receive a $10,000 grant each, which will aid them in preparing for an exhibition at ART X Lagos 2024. This transformative opportunity aims to nurture creativity and uplift emerging talents across Africa.
Divided into two categories, the Nigerian and the African Diaspora, the call invites participants from the continent. The Nigerian recipient will enjoy a 3-month residency at Gasworks, London, as part of the prize. Similarly, the African/Diasporan winner will partake in a 3-month residency at Yinka Shonibare’s GAS Foundation in Lagos. In addition, both awardees will receive personalized mentorship and networking opportunities. This emphasizes the partners’ commitment to nurturing artistic growth and enabling cultural exchange.
Herbert Wigwe, Group Managing Director of Access Holdings Plc, emphasized the initiative’s significance. He stated, “The Access ART X Prize is not just about recognizing talent; it is about empowering the next generation of African artists to tell their stories and inspire the world.” This endeavour reflects their dedication to fostering creativity. Moreover, it showcases their need to advance the African art industry, promoting a brighter and more inclusive future.
Since its inception in 2016, the Access ART X Prize has paved the way for early career artists. It has offered them diverse platforms to showcase their talents. Last year marked a pivotal moment as the prize expanded its scope to include early-career artists across Africa and its diaspora. This expansion aimed to enhance inclusivity and diversity within the African art scene, facilitating cross-cultural exchange. The 2022 Access ART X Prize celebrated two exceptional talents: Dafe Oboro (Nigerian Prize-winner) and Belinda Kazeem-Kamiński (Africa/Diaspora Prize-winner).
The submissions by early-career artists undergo rigorous evaluation by a distinguished panel of renowned artists and cultural practitioners. An esteemed jury featuring professionals like Babajide Adeniyi-Jones, Barthélémy Toguo, Daudi Karungi, Emeka Ogboh, Gabi Ngcobo, and Yesomi Umolu, will judge the Access ART X Prize 2023, ensuring a fair evaluation process.
Tokini Peterside-Schwebig, Founder and CEO of ART X Collective, expressed gratitude for the diverse and experienced jury. He emphasized their contributions to the visual art landscape. Moreover, she thanked Access Holdings for consistently supporting initiatives that elevate the next generation of African artists. These initiatives continue to foster creativity and propel the growth and development of the African art industry. Applicants must fill out an application by visiting the Art X website. The deadline for submitting is the 18th of October. Be sure to check out this amazing opportunity today.
