National Art of Honour invites Nigerian artists to submit original portraits celebrating leaders from 1914 to date.

The National Democracy Stakeholders Group (NDSG) and the National Gallery of Art (NGA) have called on Nigerian artists to submit works for the National Art of Honour project, a national initiative celebrating prominent figures in the country’s history.

Also read: Zlatan Ibile Prioritises Financial Stability over Investing in Young Artists

The project seeks to immortalise Nigerian leaders, both past and present, from 1914 to the present day, through individual or collective portraits.

Organisers invited artists nationwide to submit original pieces that reflect the personalities and contributions of influential Nigerians who have shaped the nation’s development.

Artists may submit works in painting (oil or acrylic), mixed media, relief, and sculpture (fibreglass).

Submissions must be original, not previously exhibited or published, and clearly convey the identity of the subjects portrayed. Creativity, historical accuracy, and originality are key criteria for selection.

Selected artworks will form part of a national collection dedicated to honouring Nigerian leaders.

The initiative is organised in collaboration with the National Gallery of Art, the federal institution charged with preserving and promoting Nigeria’s visual arts heritage.

Established in 1993, the NGA operates under the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy.

Since 2024, it has been led by Director-General Ahmed Sodangi, who holds a master’s degree in management and international business from Birmingham City University in the United Kingdom and previously worked at the Bank of Industry.

Also read: Spotify AI Music Tools Empower Artists and Fans

The National Art of Honour aims to create a lasting tribute to Nigeria’s historical and contemporary leaders while providing a platform for artists to contribute to the country’s cultural legacy.