By Eva Irewole
Dr. Bolaji Ogunwo, a renowned artist and head of the Department of Creative Arts at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), recently announced his collaboration with the Rotary Club of Ikeja-Alausa for a significant art exhibition.
The purpose of this event is to raise funds for vital humanitarian projects, including pediatric surgeries in India and eye surgeries for the needy.
Ogunwo, a celebrated educator with degrees from the University of Benin and UNILAG, as well as a Ph.D. from Delta State University, made this announcement during a courtesy visit by Rotary Club President Rtn. Henry Akwara and Art Exhibition Committee Chairman Rtn. Victor Ojelabi.
They discussed how the exhibition would aid the club’s efforts to raise funds for critical medical interventions.
Dr Ogunwo expressed optimism about the collaboration, stating, “The exhibition should raise the necessary funds if well harnessed. Our nation’s currency today is creativity, and art is an investment, not just decor. We’ll provide the artists and art; you bring the audience.”
He also highlighted that the exhibition will coincide with the final-year students’ showcase, featuring diverse works that reflect six years of dedication and creativity.
Ogunwo added, “Art appreciates in value, much like crude oil. It’s a global practice, and people investing in art today stand to gain in the long run.”
Citing examples of how art can be a lucrative investment, Ogunwo mentioned a personal story involving a Rotary Club member who bought some of his early works for around N40,000. Today, those same pieces are valued at over N2.5 million, and demand continues to grow.
With a global career that includes exhibitions in the United States, Ogunwo stressed the importance of choosing the right venue.
“A suitable location brings the right audience. A place like Federal Palace Hotel, where quality people can see and appreciate the art, would be ideal,” he said.
He recalled a recent experience at MadHouse, a venue on UNILAG’s campus, where a visitor, who wasn’t expecting to see art, purchased three of his works for N4.5 million.
“The venue plays a key role in attracting buyers who may not even plan to attend the exhibition,” Ogunwo explained.
The Rotary Club exhibition promises to showcase exceptional artwork while raising funds for life-changing humanitarian efforts.
