BIC, the renowned stationery brand, recently hosted the sixth edition of its Art Master Africa competition, a prestigious ballpoint pen art contest aimed at celebrating and showcasing creativity across the African continent. This year, the competition revolved around the theme of “Ubuntu,” a philosophy emphasizing unity and interdependence among communities. The event concluded with a vibrant awards ceremony in Lagos, where artists from various regions gathered to honor the exceptional entries that reflected Africa’s resilience and cultural richness.
Among the standout artists, Nigerian creative Joseph Akpan was awarded the regional title for his thought-provoking piece titled “Stronger Together.” His work was recognized for its powerful representation of collective strength, in line with the competition’s theme. Akpan expressed immense gratitude for the acknowledgment he received, which included a cash prize of $2,000, an exclusive display in the Art Master Africa Metaverse Gallery, and the possibility of being featured in BIC’s global art collection. He emphasized the personal significance of the theme “Ubuntu,” noting how it encapsulates the power of unity and community inherent in African societies.
Another notable winner was Joshua Makinde, who earned the national title for his artwork “Ayodeji.” Makinde received a cash award of $500 and shared his experience regarding the competition, calling it an inspiring journey that offered him a distinct platform to showcase his creativity. He also encouraged other artists to participate, promoting the opportunity for storytelling and artistic expression that the Art Master Africa competition provides to creatives from across the continent.
Since its inception in South Africa in 2017, the Art Master Africa competition has witnessed remarkable growth, evolving into a prominent continental platform aimed at highlighting African talent. This year, the contest recognized three regional winners and six national winners, further expanding its impact and reach. Gregory Alibaux, BIC’s Marketing Director for the Middle East and Africa, shared his admiration for the outstanding entries, stating that Art Master Africa showcases the company’s commitment to fostering creativity through writing tools.
The depth of talent displayed in the competition was echoed by judge Gary Eric, who commented on the profound creativity of the contestants’ works. His observations emphasized how each artwork connected to the broader themes of unity and harmony, resonating with the collective African experience. This year’s edition also marked significant milestones, including the introduction of the Art Master Africa Metaverse Gallery, a virtual platform designed to showcase both past and present artists’ work to a broader global audience.
BIC also acknowledged the essential role of Alliance Française in Nigeria in supporting the local art scene and fostering a nurturing environment for artists. The collaboration with such institutions is integral to the competition’s success, enhancing community engagement and encouraging cultural exchange. With its ongoing dedication to promoting African talent and artistic expression, BIC’s Art Master Africa competition continues to inspire and empower artists, ensuring their voices and stories resonate locally and globally. Through initiatives like this, BIC is undoubtedly setting a precedent for future creative endeavors across the continent.
