To mark the 50 years of artistic collaborations between Nigeria and the United States of America (USA), three legendary Nigerian artists- Chief Nike Davies-Okundaye, Chief Jimoh Buraimoh, and Prof. Bruce Onobrakpeya- were awarded with the U.S. Exchange Alumni Lifetime Achievement Award.
The US Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, made the presentation in recognition of the trio whose their first trip to the US was from Nigerian is dated back to 50 years ago as participants for the Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Programme (IVLP).
The US Mission in Nigeria through a statement yesterday disclosed that each of the recipients was awarded a commemorative certificate, signifying their exceptional commitment to their artistic craft, dedicated mentorship of emerging creative’s, and invaluable contributions that have continued to strengthened collaboration between the two countries.
Ambassador Mills in his remarks during the program noted that his country, the US was committed to supporting such programmes that nurture cultural exchange, promote artistic expression, preserve cultural heritage, and strengthen the capacity of Nigerian artists and professionals in the entertainment industry.
He highlighted the role of U.S. government exchange programme alumni in having a positive impact on recognise communities in many fields, as the creative economy are not left behind.
He said, “Art has the power to connect people and communities across the world.
“This is why we supported these programmes 50 years ago, we support them now, and we will continue supporting them far into the future,” said Mills.
One of the legends, Chief Davies-Okundaye who has mentored students worldwide in the traditional art of adire and batik applauded his participating in the exchange programme as she said it has impacted her life positively, it has opened up new opportunities and perspectives that shaped her career and personal growth.
She said, “I am very happy to see this day,” awardee and celebrated bead painter, Chief Jimoh Buraimoh, said of the recognition.
“Going to the U.S. on an exchange program 50 years ago in 1974, was truly transformative, giving me an opportunity to share my work widely and mentor the next generation of artists.”
In a similar manner, Chief Buraimoh’s artwork was exhibited globally, and he has taught at prestigious institutions, including the Haystack Mountain School of Crafts in Maine and universities in New York, Boston, and Los Angeles.
On his part, the 92 years old Professor Bruce Onobrakpeya has continues to be pillar in the Nigerian visual art scene, working across painting, printmaking, installation, and sculpture. He noted that the award recognition is a challenge to up-and-coming artists to remain dedicated to their craft.
He said, “I am very excited and encouraged. I will continue to pay it forward by nurturing future talent in the industry,” he added. Notable as the illustrator for Chinua Achebe’s No Longer at Ease, Professor Onobrakpeya has exhibited globally, including the current exhibition “The Mask and the Sword” at the Smithsonian in Washington, DC, and remains one of West Africa’s most celebrated 20th century artists.
Meanwhile, the occasion has brought together distinguished audience, including political and business leaders, diplomats, academic figures, arts curators and collectors, as well as alumni of various U.S. government exchange programmes.