Nike Arts Gallery: Drums rolled out to celebrate international artist Nike Okundaye at 70

Nike Okundaye is a name synonymous with the arts nationally and internationally.

Okundaye over the past 55 years has created a niche for herself in the art world.

Little wonder, a red carpet was rolled out for her in an exhibition titled: Celebrating Nike Okundaye (Nike Gallery) 55 Years of Exhibiting & Promoting Traditional & Contemporary African Art and also to mark her 70th birthday.

The venue was the Centre for Black Culture and International Understanding, Àbere.

A lot of programmes were lined up for the celebration in honour of the woman whose contribution to the world of arts saw her establishing the Nike Arts Gallery.

Groups like; Alápáaró and his team of drummers,
Alámọ́yọ̀ and UNIOSUN Cultural Troupe were on hand to delight the crowds and perform the Oríkì of Òṣogbo and also celebrate Chief Dr. Nike Okundaye at the event packaged by the Centre for Black Culture and International Understanding.

Professor Peju Olayiwola speaking on the life, work and art of Chief Dr. Nike Okundaye celebrated the renowned artist describing her as a mentor to many.

The Àràbà of Òṣogbo Land, High Chief Ifáyẹmí Ọṣundàgbonù Elẹ́bùíbọn and Àgbọ̀ngbọ̀n Awo of Òṣogbo, Chief Fákáyọ̀dé Fáníyì, also spoke about the life of Chief Dr. Nike Okundaye.

She eulogised her as a true African who has carried arts and crafts of Nigeria to the wider world.

Elebuibon also offered prayers for the celebrant.

She was presented with the Black Culture Heroine Award, 2023.

A renowned culture activist, Molara Wood was also on hand to speak about Nike Okundaye.

Wood revealed that Nike Okundaye aka Nike Arts Gallery has contributed immensely to the promotion of African Art.

Art Exhibition by the students of Super Kids Arts Academy, Òṣogbo were also part of highlight to honour Chief Dr. Nike Okundaye (Nike Gallery) for contributing immensely to the promotion of African Art.





FI