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 ambitious project is set to become a hub for creative collaboration and cultural dialogue.
What makes Mbari Kola truly unique is its commitment to separating commercial interests from social impact. Ebilah, who is also the founder of the commercial gallery Bloom Art Lagos, understands the importance of maintaining a clear distinction between her business ventures and her passion for the arts. By creating a dedicated space for members and patrons, she aims to bring together artists and art enthusiasts, fostering a deeper appreciation for the creative process.
The society's name, Mbari Kola, pays homage to the historical Mbari artists' and writers' clubs that flourished across Africa in the 1960s. Inspired by the first club established in Ibadan, Nigeria, in 1961, Ebilah envisions Mbari Kola as a platform for serious intellectual exchange and cultural conversation. This vision aligns with the need for environments that encourage reflection, argument, and long-form cultural discussions, free from the immediate pressures of the art market.
The new society will be housed in a renovated building in Ikoyi, one of Lagos' most affluent areas, offering a stunning view of the lagoon. The venue will feature a gallery, shop, and garden open to the public, as well as exclusive spaces for members, including a private lounge, terrace, library, and multifunctional rooms. This diverse range of spaces will accommodate various art-related events, such as exhibitions, residencies, film screenings, concerts, performances, and readings.
One of the key aspects of Mbari Kola is its focus on supporting publishing initiatives and other programs through the Mbari Kola Arts and Culture Foundation. This foundation will play a crucial role in promoting the work of Nigerian artists and contributing to the country's cultural development. The art displayed at the society will be drawn from the foundation's collections, as well as those of Ebilah and the club's members, ensuring a diverse and dynamic artistic program.
Ebilah's passion for the arts is evident in her desire to attract members who are genuinely passionate about the creative process. She believes that tepid engagement is not enough to address the challenges faced by the Nigerian art ecosystem and the broader African art scene. By fostering a community of dedicated individuals, Mbari Kola aims to create a platform for meaningful dialogue and collaboration.
The soft launch of Mbari Kola is scheduled for Africa Day, May 25th, symbolizing the celebration of the African Union's formation in 1963. This timing highlights the society's commitment to promoting African art and culture. The second and third phases of the project will follow after the summer and during Lagos Art Week, coinciding with the renowned ART X Lagos art fair.
The funding for Mbari Kola is a testament to its potential impact. Ebilah has secured partial funding, while the rest has been crowdfunded through founding patrons and members. This diverse support network ensures that the society can thrive and fulfill its mission. Ebilah's vision is to create a space where artists and art enthusiasts can connect, collaborate, and inspire each other, ultimately contributing to the growth and development of the Nigerian art scene and beyond.
As Mbari Kola takes its first steps, the art world eagerly anticipates its impact. Oliver Enwonwu, a Nigerian artist and curator, emphasizes the importance of creating environments that encourage serious intellectual exchange across disciplines. While Lagos already boasts a vibrant commercial art scene, Enwonwu believes that Mbari Kola has the potential to provide the much-needed spaces for reflection, argument, and long-form cultural conversations.
In conclusion, Mbari Kola is a groundbreaking initiative that promises to enrich the cultural landscape of Lagos and Nigeria. By combining commercial ventures with a deep commitment to social impact, Ebilah has created a unique platform for artistic expression and cultural dialogue. As the society evolves, it will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the Nigerian art scene, inspiring a new generation of artists and art enthusiasts.
