Between the 2nd and 6th of November, we hosted the International Launch of Guest Artists Space Foundation in Nigeria.A group of gallery directors and cultural stakeholders were invited to participate in a dynamic programme of events that offered an insight into the vibrant artistic landscape in Lagos and beyond. First on the agenda was a trip to the Ecology Green Farm and G.A.S. Farm House in Ikise where our guests were welcomed by drummers and a dance performance by children from the local villages.
On the second day, the group were taken on studio visits with Mobolaji Ogunrosoye and Nengi Omuku which offered an intimate opportunity to meet the artists and gain a deeper understanding of their work and developing careers. Following lunch at NOK by Alara, they were taken to the book launch of ‘Discomfort Zones’ by seminal Nigerian artist Ndidi Dike. The day concluded with a private cocktail reception of I See You at Tiwani Contemporary. The exhibition, which is ongoing, features new and recent works by artists Virginia Chihota, Masimba Hwati, and Gareth Nyandoro alongside recent G.A.S. residents Gideon Gomo and Portia Zvavahera.
On the third day, we took our guests on private visits to Kó Gallery and Rele Gallery, the latter opened a new space in Los Angeles, California in 2021 becoming the first African gallery in the city. The group then had an opportunity to visit G.A.S. Lagos and view An Unfolding Prelude, an exhibition of work by past and current G.A.S. Residents before having lunch with Yinka Shonibare CBE RA at his private residence.
We continued the day with the Collector's Preview of ART X which was celebrating its 7th year and biggest fair to date. The fair closed with a site-specific performance by Ranti Bam that included the participation of current G.A.S. resident Seyi Adelekun. In the evening our guests were hosted at the private residence of G.A.S. supporters who generously opened up their home and private collection for an intimate viewing.
On the final day, our guests were taken to CCA Lagos where they met with Artistic and Executive Director Oyinda Fakeye. During the visit, they were able to explore the two current exhibitions before moving on to a studio tour with Viktor Ehikhamenor. The group was then generously hosted for lunch at the home of our Founding Patron before returning to G.A.S. Lagos for a very special evening celebration.