Excitement as art, craft village renews interest in local art scene

There seems to be a glimpse of hope, excitement and elation amongt artists and art enthusiasts in Abuja, as the art and craft village located in Wuse has returned with a vibrant presence, signalling a renewed interest in the local art scene.

It presents a unique opportunity for art enthusiasts and collectors to explore the works of talented artisans and craftsmen. The market’s revival is expected to have a positive impact on the artistic community, as it fosters an environment that encourages creative expression and innovation.

This development is a clear indication of the growing appreciation for art and culture in the region, and it is expected to attract a diverse range of visitors and buyers alike. Though it is still gathering momentum after its five years hiatus many believe its potential is crucial to improving the art trajectory in Abuja.

Contrary to the rumour about the market closure owing to land disputes, it was gathered that the Art and Craft village shut down following a fire incident in December 2017. The fire was triggered by an electric spark in one of the shops, which quickly spread to other parts of the market and resulted in the loss of valuable artistic pieces worth over 50 million naira. The fire incident led to a surge of insecurity within the village that led to its shutdown.

Officially, it opened on October 12, 2023 and currently boasts of 140 shops. The rental fee for a single shop is N300,000, while a double shop is available for N600,000. There are artistic pieces available valued anywhere from N500 to N2 million.

There are little clusters of dilapidated structures that need comprehensive restructuring. It has the potential to generate employment and contribute significantly to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) , like in other countries in the world that prioritise the arts.

The Chairman, Society of Nigerian Artists, FCT, Aderinkomi John Adeleye, described the reopening of the market as crucial to revitalising the dwindling art culture of Abuja, and Nigeria at large. He also urged the government to take action in removing street vendors selling art pieces, as there is a risk of counterfeit products being sold, which could damage the country’s reputation.

“The business of arts is better when we are in a place together and people can come. It becomes a destination for tourists to come and buy.” Due to the five-year hiatus, there are art vendors scattered around town who sell art and craft pieces. The implementation is that if they sell a fake craft or painting to foreigners that could give the country a bad image. We call on the government to help us take action. The art and craft market is a great employer of labour.”

Yemi Oladipo, a painter and market vendor, said the art business is picking up at a good pace but he also appealed to the new DG to consider extending the market closure time to facilitate increased sales.

In his words: “The art business here is improving every day however Art is luxury people will leave the office by 6 O’clock or 5:30, if we continue locking the market by 6 O’clock it will affect sales. I appeal to the new DG to extend the closure time so we can make good sales.”

Also, another artist and vendor, Kennedy Gguakun, challenged the government to adopt the approach used in Ghana, its neighbour, and play a more active role in promoting the export of art pieces sold in the aet and craft market.

He said: “The government should be involved in exporting our art. I can authoritatively tell you, as I’m told by my friends, and my colleagues in Ghana their government will put the 40-foot container down and you the artist and art dealer fill this container with the artwork. Then the artists, who know standards. Will raise a committee and get it done. I believe the new DG should help regulate the art industry to ensure quality and standards, as this will help in exporting art and bringing in foreign exchange.”

The Guardian also observed that art enthusiasts trooping into the market were brimming with excitement about the unique and exquisite art and craft pieces that they had purchased.

One of those enthusiasts, Tunde Akanni, expressed his elation when he said: “I grew up knowing this art market. Suddenly it disappeared. But I’m happy it is back, I got a painting and it is way cheaper than it is in other arts and crafts markets outside Nigeria.”

Another art enthusiast and buyer, Amaka Chiedo, urged the government to take advantage of the huge potential of the market. According to her, many nations around the world like France have thrived with revenues coming from the visual arts.

“This is a huge revenue-generating plant. I wish and hope the government Will take advantage of it, and get art practitioners to handle the artistic part while businessmen can explore the business aspects of running the market this will be a bomb. France is doing well with Visual Art we can take that up,” she said.

The manager of the art and craft village, Suleiman Yahaya, shared his vision of the market enhancement. He mentioned that all the shops damaged by fire have been upgraded into a more standard structure and there are upcoming plans for perimeter fencing.

He urged residents of the Federal Capital Territory to show their support by buying from the art vendors in the market and to take a greater interest in their culture and Nigeria’s art and craft.

“We are making improvements to the art and craft Village. We are fixing the perimeter fence, building more shops, and renovating those damaged by fire. We are also enhancing some of the shops with new ceilings, doors, and windows. Additionally, we are adding aesthetic features to the village to create a welcoming environment that promotes culture.

“Though at the moment there are no available shops within the village. The village represents Nigeria’s diverse cultures and promotes national unity and heritage.”

Mr Sulieman also called on the government to make funds available to improve the infrastructure in the market. He said: “The government needs to invest more money in improving the market’s infrastructure. This includes adding better lighting, and perimeter fencing, and promoting the market to the international community. By showcasing our culture, we can help these artists by patronizing their works. Let Nigerians and FCT residents celebrate their heritage. It’s important to support local crafts and arts, as they represent our history. By promoting and preserving them, we can share our cultural heritage with the world.”