By Osa Mbonu-Amadi

Twenty finalists for Next of Kin Series 7 art competition and exhibition have been announced. The shortlisted artists announced recently at Thought Pyramid Art Center are Abi Aba Linus, Adetokun Opeyemi Johnson, Anyaneto Chinenye Linda, Cletus Oche, Ibrahim Falilat, Mitchelle James, Ogunleke Festus Abiodun, Okeke Maduabuchi Precious, Olasunkanmi Oyenusi and Uhule Nguemo Martha.

Others shortlisted artists are Abiodun Emmanuel Olaniyi, Ajala Zainab Oluwadamilola, Anyaneto Chinenye Linda, Ibrahim Falilat, Mitchelle James, David Obebiate Azibodi, Oguvre Solomon Ogheneothuke, Olasunkanmi Oyelusi, Okeuhie Solomon Chukwuemeka and Yakubu Kareem.

The overall winner of the series 7 competition titled “Who will give us a masterpiece?” will be announced at the opening reception which comes up Sunday, March 30, 2025 at Thought Pyramid Art Center, Ikoyi, Lagos.

The Curator of Next of Kin Series who is also the Exhibition Director of Thought Pyramid Art Centre, Mr. Ovie Omatsola, said since its inception in 2018, the Next of Kin Series by the Thought Pyramid Art Centre has evolved into a powerful catalyst for emerging visual artists in Nigeria and across Africa.

“This platform” Omatsola said, “has not only launched the careers of several talented artists but also illuminated the critical intersection of art, finance, and economic development. It has become synonymous with talent discovery and economic empowerment.”

Mr. Omatsola revealed that the financial incentives for the competition includes a N5 million solo exhibition prize, saying events like Next of Kin attract international attention, drawing art collectors, curators, and investors to Nigeria. “This influx of interest contributes to local tourism, stimulates hospitality businesses, and promotes Nigeria’s cultural exports on the global stage.”

The jury comprises renowned artists Nathalie Kassi, Arinze Stanley, and Kelani Abass who ensure that the competition remains a barometer for high-quality artistry.

Advising the competing artists, Mrs. Obehi Ojeaga who represented Nigeria Machine Tools, one of the sponsors of Next of Kin Series 7, emphasized the importance of being consistent in what one does. “When it comes to business, the most important thing for me is going to work and being consistent. Opportunities will come if you’re true to what you do.”  

One of the juries, Nathalie Kassi, a renowned artist, spoke on the value of an artist moving step-by-step. “Some people are lucky; they come out from school, they do one piece and they blow. Others spend 20 years (before achieving success).  When you go slowly (step-by-step) you will last in the market,” she said.  

The Next of Kin Series 7 is sponsored by Nigeria Machine Tools and Trustbanc Group.