July 23, 2026 by Samuel Oamen | Senior Reporter
Awòrán Àjọyọ̀ 2026 nears finale as Abulente celebrates African creativity
As the 2026 edition of Awòrán Àjọyọ̀ (Festival of Visual Arts) comes to a close, the annual celebration has reaffirmed its place as one of Nigeria’s growing platforms for artistic dialogue, cultural exchange, and creative excellence.
Throughout the month-long festival, Abulente Gallery has welcomed artists, collectors, students, scholars, and art enthusiasts to experience a rich programme dedicated to the power of visual storytelling.
Held from 1st to 30th July 2026, the festival has transformed the Centre into a vibrant meeting point where photography, drawing, illustration, comic art, textile art, woodwork, and other visual disciplines have converged. Beyond the exhibitions, visitors have participated in portfolio reviews, artist talks, photography workshops, and community photo walks, creating meaningful opportunities for learning, networking, and collaboration.
Leading this year’s curatorial vision is Lead Curator, Oluwatimilehin Osho, whose approach has centred on creating an inclusive platform that celebrates both established and emerging voices in African visual arts. Under Osho’s leadership, the festival has encouraged conversations around heritage, identity, innovation, craftsmanship, and the evolving future of contemporary African art.
Reflecting on the festival’s success, Osho noted that the vision has always extended beyond exhibiting artworks. In her words,
“Awòrán Àjọyọ̀ is about creating opportunities for artists to be seen, heard, and connected. It is encouraging to witness the level of engagement from visitors, young creatives, and professionals who have embraced this year’s programme. The conversations sparked here will continue long after the exhibition closes.”
Among the many artists whose works have attracted visitors throughout the festival are Emeka Peter Okafor, Fatai Oluwasesan Tijani, Femi Ogunbiyi, Adeola Ayoyinka Erinfolami, Adeola Modupe Ogunleye, Aishat Musa, Akinwale Badejo, Amara Obi, Tobiloba Awogbemila, Ayodeji Fashina, alongside numerous other talented practitioners representing diverse artistic backgrounds and creative disciplines.
The exhibition spaces have showcased an impressive range of artistic expressions, from thought-provoking photography and intricate textile works to compelling illustrations and contemporary mixed-media pieces, reflecting the richness and diversity of Africa’s visual arts landscape. Visitors have praised the quality of the exhibitions as well as the accessibility of the accompanying educational programmes, which have fostered deeper appreciation for artistic practice and cultural preservation.
Throughout July, the festival has also reinforced the importance of collaboration within Nigeria’s creative ecosystem. Emerging artists have benefited from professional portfolio reviews, while public talks and workshops have provided practical insights into artistic development, documentation, and career sustainability. Such initiatives mirror a growing trend among African art festivals to combine exhibitions with mentorship, education, and community engagement, strengthening the long-term growth of the creative sector.
As Awòrán Àjọyọ̀ approaches its final days, organisers describe the 2026 edition as a testament to the resilience, originality, and boundless imagination of African artists. The festival has not only celebrated outstanding creative achievements but has also strengthened connections between artists and audiences, reinforcing the role of visual arts in preserving culture, inspiring dialogue, and shaping future generations.
With the closing date fast approaching, visitors still have a final opportunity to experience one of the year’s most engaging celebrations of African visual culture before Awòrán Àjọyọ̀ concludes its successful 2026 edition.
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