In the bustling city of Lagos, a new art society is emerging, promising to revolutionize the way art is experienced and appreciated. Founded by Ugoma Chinelo Ebilah, an economist-turned-curator, Mbari Kola is a private art society and members' club that aims to foster cross-disciplinary exchange and support the country's thriving artist community. With a focus on pan-African art and culture, this innovative initiative is set to make a significant impact on the Nigerian art scene.
What makes Mbari Kola truly unique is its approach to art appreciation. Ebilah wants to create a space where artists and art enthusiasts can come together, bridging the gap between the creators and consumers of art. She believes that by keeping these two groups in close contact, the art world can become more responsible and thoughtful. This concept is inspired by the Mbari artists' and writers' clubs that flourished across Africa in the 1960s, with the first one established in Ibadan, Nigeria, in 1961. These clubs were known for fostering intellectual exchange and cultural conversations, and Ebilah hopes to recreate that sense of community and engagement.
The society will be housed in a beautifully renovated building overlooking the lagoon in Ikoyi, one of Lagos' most prestigious areas. The venue will feature a public gallery, shop, and garden, as well as private areas for members, including a lounge, terrace, library, and multifunctional rooms. This space will host a wide range of events, from exhibitions and residencies to film screenings, concerts, performances, and readings, all centered around pan-African art and culture. The foundation will also support publishing initiatives and other programs, further enriching the artistic landscape.
One of the key aspects of Mbari Kola is its emphasis on intellectual substance. As Oliver Enwonwu, a Nigerian artist and curator, points out, Lagos already has numerous commercial art galleries, but what it lacks is a space for deep reflection, argument, and long-form cultural conversations. Mbari Kola aims to fill this void by creating an environment where artists and art enthusiasts can engage in meaningful discussions and exchange ideas across different disciplines. This, according to Enwonwu, will be the true test of the society's impact.
Funding for Mbari Kola comes from a combination of sources. Ebilah has invested her own funds, and the rest has been crowdfunded through founding patrons and members. Ebilah is passionate about attracting people who are truly passionate about the arts. She believes that tepid interest won't help solve the current challenges facing the Nigerian art ecosystem or the broader African and global art scenes. By bringing together dedicated individuals, Mbari Kola aims to foster a vibrant and engaged community.
The soft launch of Mbari Kola is scheduled for Africa Day, May 25th, an annual celebration of the African Union's formation in 1963. This timing is symbolic, as it aligns with the society's mission to promote African art and culture. The second and third phases of the project will follow the summer and Lagos Art Week, which coincides with the ART X Lagos art fair in November. These phases will further expand the society's reach and impact, solidifying Mbari Kola's position as a leading force in the Nigerian art world.
In conclusion, Mbari Kola is a groundbreaking initiative that has the potential to transform the way art is experienced and understood in Lagos. By creating a space that fosters cross-disciplinary exchange and brings artists and art enthusiasts together, Ebilah is addressing a critical need in the Nigerian art scene. As the society continues to evolve, it will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the cultural landscape, enriching the lives of artists and art lovers alike.
