Winners emerge at 2023 Access Art X contest

Julius Agbaje and Asmaa Jama have emerged as winners of the 2023 Access Art X Prize edition in the Nigerian and African/Diaspora categories respectively.

The winners were announced at a ceremony, held at Access Holdings’ headquarters in Lagos.

Both awardees will receive $10,000 grants towards solo exhibitions at ART X Lagos 2024, providing them with a platform to showcase their evolving artistic narratives and ideas.

Additionally, the Nigerian winner will embark on a three-month residency at Gasworks, London, while the African/Diaspora winner will enjoy a residency at Yinka Shonibare’s GAS Foundation in Lagos. Both recipients will benefit from tailored mentorship and an invaluable opportunity for cultural exchange.

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Founder of ART X Collective, Tokini Peterside-Schwebig, stated that the competition was geared towards providing the platform to reveal the depth and diversity of contemporary African art to the world.

She disclosed that the birth of the Access ART X Prize was fueled by an ardent commitment to bridging the gap for early-career artists, empowering them to evolve into adept, globally relevant creative.

Group Chief Executive Officer, Access Holdings PLC, Herbert Wigwe described the artistic competition as a catalyst for change.

He stated that it is a testament to his unwavering commitment to foster creativity and propel the African art industry towards unprecedented heights.

He said, “The prize also embodies a promise that we will continue to support and nurture the burgeoning talents in Africa; foster diversity, inclusivity, and cross-cultural exchange within the African art scene, and deepen collaborations with partners that bring us closer towards our vision of shaping a brighter, more inclusive future for all.”