The second edition of the +234 Art Fair, orchestrated by Soto Gallery, is poised to take center stage at the Ecobank Pan African Centre in Victoria Island, Lagos, later this month. This year’s fair, themed “Championing Patronage in Nigerian Art,” is a collaborative effort between Soto Gallery, Ecobank Nigeria Limited, and Africa Finance Corporation, with Craneburg Construction Company taking the lead as the main sponsor. The event aims to delve into the multifaceted role of patronage in nurturing the growth and ensuring the long-term viability of Nigerian art, moving beyond mere financial support to encompass a deeper engagement with the artistic ecosystem.
At the heart of the +234 Art Fair is the recognition that artistic flourishing requires more than just funding. It necessitates the cultivation of an environment where artists are supported, encouraged, and connected with a community invested in their development. The 2025 edition seeks to build these vital bridges, facilitating meaningful interactions between artists, collectors, and enthusiasts. By showcasing the transformative power of genuine patronage, the fair aims to demonstrate how strategic support can shape individual artistic journeys and contribute to the overall enrichment of the Nigerian art landscape.
Tola Akerele, the driving force behind both the +234 Art Fair and the Soto Gallery Foundation, emphasizes the importance of patronage as a catalyst for sustainable artistic practice. She envisions the fair as a dynamic platform where artists can connect with potential patrons, not just for financial backing, but also for mentorship, networking opportunities, and the validation that fuels creative exploration. The goal is to foster relationships that empower artists to continue honing their craft and expand their reach, ultimately contributing to the vibrancy and resilience of the Nigerian art scene.
Ecobank Nigeria, a key partner in this initiative, reaffirms its dedication to nurturing the creative sector across Nigeria and the wider African continent. Recognizing the creative industry as a crucial engine for economic growth and global interconnectedness, Ecobank is committed to investing in the next generation of African artistic talent. By providing platforms like the +234 Art Fair, the bank aims to support the growth and elevate the international profile of Nigeria’s burgeoning art scene, showcasing its richness and diversity to a global audience.
Bolaji Lawal, Managing Director/Regional Executive of Ecobank Nigeria, underlines the bank’s strategic focus on fostering the creative economy. He sees the +234 Art Fair as a vital avenue for emerging artists to gain exposure, connect with industry professionals, and ultimately, thrive in their chosen field. This commitment aligns with Ecobank’s broader vision of empowering African talent and contributing to the continent’s cultural and economic advancement. By championing artistic endeavors, the bank aims to create a ripple effect that benefits not just individual artists, but the entire creative ecosystem, fostering innovation and driving growth across the continent.
The partnership between Soto Gallery, Ecobank, AFC, and Craneburg Construction Company underscores the growing recognition of art as a valuable asset, both culturally and economically. The +234 Art Fair serves as a powerful testament to the transformative potential of collaborative endeavors in supporting artistic expression and fostering a thriving creative landscape. By bringing together artists, patrons, and industry stakeholders, the fair creates a vibrant hub for dialogue, exchange, and the cultivation of a supportive ecosystem that empowers Nigerian artists to flourish and contribute to the global art dialogue.
