Nsukka was the third stop on the Mirror the Master children’s art tour in Nigeria.
Nsukka houses a world class Fine and Applied Arts Department within the University of Nigeria. One of Nsukka’s celebrated artists is El Anatsui, whose works grace some of the most influential museums and art spaces in the world. He was a strong supporter of the tour and had some encouraging words of hope for young participants.
The tour was themed on the artist Ben Enwonwu. Children took part in a workshop at the Ben Enwonwu building in the university campus, hosted by renowned ceramist Ngozi Omeje. They were then introduced to ceramics and textiles and had a great time creating.
Art workshops took place over 2 days at Central School, a public sector primary school in the township. Children were mentored by a number of university artists and arguably produced the best art work of the tour. The overall winner, Johncross Omeke came from Nsukka.
Time in Nsukka was disrupted by student unrest which forced venue and workshop changes. But it was also a lesson in persistence. By remaining focused, the team managed to pull off one of the most memorable experiences of the tour. The final awards day was full of culture with school dance troupes competing for attention. The joy was captured in some amazing pics. As in all areas, 3 winners were selected who then took part in a winners exhibition in Lagos.
