Israel partners Nigeria in advancing economic growth through arts
Israel partners Nigeria in advancing economic growth through arts
Israel has reaffirmed its commitment to collaborate with Nigeria in driving social change and economic growth through the arts. Inbar Garden, Deputy Chief of Mission and Consul of Israel in Nigeria, made this known in her keynote address in Abuja during the Upcycling Art Exhibition on Wednesday in Abuja.
The exhibition was organised by the Israeli Embassy in partnership with the Africa Art Fund(AAF).
The exhibition, with the theme “Revive and Reimagine,” was designed for emerging artists from Nigerian universities and focused on celebrating the cultural heritage of both Israel and Nigeria through upcycled art.
According to Garden, the event symbolises a celebration of creativity, cultural exchange, and the strong connection between Nigerian universities and the Israeli Embassy.
“This exhibition brings to life an idea we hold dear—that art has the power to transcend borders, bridge differences, and spark meaningful conversations between people and nations,” she said.
“Israel and Nigeria may be geographically apart, but we are united by shared values—vibrant cultures, rich histories, deep spirituality, and a passion for innovation and artistic expression.
“Through this project, we have witnessed how art serves as a bridge between our two countries, offering new perspectives while highlighting both our similarities and uniqueness.”
Garden also noted that the exhibition was particularly inspiring because all the artworks were created using recycled and repurposed materials.
“This creative approach not only reflects a commitment to sustainability but also symbolises the idea of transformation.
“That is taking something discarded and turning it into beauty, meaning, and dialogue,” she added.
She further described the exhibited artworks as reflections of a new generation—young artists who use colour, texture, and storytelling to explore the connections between Nigeria and Israel.
“These artists challenge us to think differently and invite us to reimagine cultural exchange in its most creative form.
“Cultural diplomacy plays a crucial role in strengthening ties between nations,” she sai..
Mr Ifesinachi Nwanyanwu is the President and CEO of AAF, a newly established Pan-African nonprofit organisation.
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Nwanyanwu highlighted the impact of the collaboration with the embassy in fostering sustainable growth in Africa’s creative sector.
“It was exciting to work closely with the participating schools and artists throughout this project,” Nwanyanwu said.
“From the start, it was evident that these artists had a clear vision. Seeing their works on display makes it all the more impressive and rewarding.”
The project featured a fine arts competition among students from six universities, namely, the University of Lagos, Obafemi Awolowo University, and the University of Nigeria, Nssukka.
Others are, the University of Calabar, the Federal University of Technology, Lafia, and the University of Jos.
The highlight of the two-month exibition, was the presentation of awards, with Obafemi Awolowo University emerging as the overall winner.
While the University of Nigeria came second, the University of Jos snatched the third place
