Female Artists Association of Nigeria (FEAAN) will hold its annual International Women’s Day exhibition For All Women and Girls at Nike Art Gallery Abuja from March 7 to 9, according to Mrs Chinyere Ibenye, the Southwest Coordinator and Vice President of FEAAN, during a forum at Nike Art Gallery in Lagos recently.
FEAN, which was founded over 20 years ago, emerged as a response to the challenges faced by female artists in the industry. Ibenye said the association was established because, at the time, female artists struggled for recognition, as their works were often overlooked. To address this, one of the early executives brought together a group of women who agreed to form an association to support and promote female artists and their works.
Since its inception, FEAAN has grown significantly, now boasting over 200 members across Nigeria and beyond. The association, initially comprised solely of Nigerian artists, has expanded to include international members, such as Pakistani and Indian female artists, who actively participate in exhibitions.
Ibenye explained that the association’s primary goal is to empower and encourage young, upcoming female artists by providing them with a platform to showcase their talents. “We want to give them a voice and an opportunity to shine,” she stated.
The upcoming International Women’s Day exhibition in Abuja is an annual event organised by FEAAN to celebrate and promote female artists. The event is expected to feature a variety of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, textiles, and embroidery. The group exhibition will be curated by Mrs Akande Ngozi Rosemary and will feature 36 artists among them are Adedoyin Adelani, Adiwu Alatu Onkala, Agu Pamela, Aisha Idrisu, Akande Ngozi Resemary, Annastasia Micheal, Bamikole Adeola Blessing, Chidera Confidence Uzoma, Chinwendu Silas, Chinyere Comfort Ejimaja, Vivian Ajodo, Ekene May, Eucharia S.A. Mbashall, Fatima Giwa, Fatima Masaya, Funmibi lyanda, Hafsah Mujeli, Judith Yahaya, Julieth Chinasa Vite and Katurag Chinyio. Others are Khadijah Adeboye, Lillian Chizoba Pilaku, Maryam Maigida, Miracle Ome, Naomi Oyeniyi, Nelly Idagba, Regina Patrick, Sadiq Abimbola Rukayat, Sinda Kwairanga and Zainab Magaji.
This year’s exhibition aligns with the global International Women’s Day theme, “Accelerate Action”, which aims to collectively create a more inclusive world for women. As part of the celebration, Chief Nike Okundaye, the founder of Nike Art Gallery, has also planned a follow-up exhibition in Lagos. This will extend the festivities, bringing together more female artists for a week-long showcase of creativity and talent.
Due to space limitations, the number of artworks that can be displayed in Lagos will be restricted, with artists expected to submit not more than two pieces each. However, in Abuja, where the gallery is larger, there will be room for more works to be exhibited.
Speaking on the exhibition, Ibenye noted that all artistic media would be accommodated. “We have painters, sculptors, ceramic artists, and textile artists among us. Everyone is welcome to showcase their work,” she said.
To manage costs, FEAAN will rely on its in-house curator for organising the exhibition, as hiring an external curator is currently not financially feasible. Ibenye highlighted the importance of securing sponsorships and media publicity to ensure the success of the event.
“We need support, we need visibility, and that is why we are reaching out. This exhibition is a major event for us, and we want it to receive the attention it deserves,” she said.
A brochure detailing the event and the participating artists will be released a week before the exhibition, allowing time for last-minute submissions.
FEAAN continues to be a driving force for female artists in Nigeria and beyond, fostering unity, creativity, and empowerment within the art community. As the association prepares for its 2025 International Women’s Day celebration, it remains committed to its mission of amplifying the voices of female artists and ensuring their contributions are recognized on a national and global scale.
