A-ARTs: For art economy, 4th AMIAF redefines global market

...as movement for fresh creatives, international artists

By Joy Onuorah

CEO/Founder of AMIAF, Miabo Enyadike, speaking; flanked by Dr Festus Adeyemi, Dean of Vocational Education, Federal College of Education, Technical, Akoka, Lagos; Curator, Yusuf Durodola; and extreme right, Operations Manager, Uchechukwu Agu.

Leading contemporary art event, ArtMiabo International Art Festival (AMIAF) is back with its 2025 edition, bringing together artists, and art enthusiasts from around the world.

This year’s event is set to be bigger, bolder, and more impactful, featuring both emerging and established creatives. According to the organisers, ArtMiabo 2025 isn’t just a festival, it’s a living, breathing masterpiece in motion. Expected to be on display are larger-than-life themes, avant-garde that defy the rules, as well as music that pulses through the crowd, and performances art that blur the lines between reality and imagination.

One of the major highlights this year is an exclusive children’s art program, where 10–15 young artists will receive stipend and hands-on training in immersive workshops. The goal is to nurture the next generation of artistic visionaries, Founder and CEO of AMIAF, Miabo Enyadike stated during the preview.

The creative contents of AMIAF fourth edition will be led by Yusuf Durodola, the curator who has curated the last two editions of the event. Themed as Artconomy 2025: Redefining the Global Art Marketplace, AMIAF 2025 will take place from April 29-May, at Admiralty Conference Center, Ahmadu Bello Way, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Miabo disclosed that while some international artists may not be physically present due to travel constraints, their works will be exhibited, ensuring a global artistic presence. However, with its growing scale and diverse activities, there’s a an on going conversation around extending the duration in future editions for a more immersive experience.

According to Enyadike, "art isn’t just for galleries, it’s for the streets, the people, and the dreamers who dare to create." She stressed that AMIAF provides a platform for emerging artists, particularly from underserved communities, to showcase their work, gain recognition, and connect with industry professionals. She cited one of such examples in David Ola, who teaches art to children in slums. Some of Ola's students will be exhibiting their creations at AMIAF this year, Enyadike disclosed.

It’s important to note that the festival thrives "on collaboration, not competition." Enyadike explained that among such collaborations and partnerships from major brands like DSTV, JCDecaux, and EbonyLife Studio. She added that with increasing media supports, ArtMiabo continues to grow, offering artists opportunities for exposure, networking, and event commissions.

Beyond the Festival, the bigger picture of ArtMiabo isn’t just exhibitions, it’s a movement, the organisers assured. By connecting art to the economy, the festival reinforces the financial and societal value of artistic expression.

Enyadike argued that artists aren’t just creators; "they’re contributors to economic growth, cultural identity, and social change." She cited example that last year, emerging artists secured their first international gallery deal. A child from an underserved community picked up a paintbrush and discovered a new world of possibilities. This year, ArtMiabo is ready to change even more lives.

The curator, Durodola, added that AMIAF is not just about exhibitions; it’s a wake-up call to rethink the value of art in today’s world. "What Miabo is doing is revolutionary, creating a space where art is not just consumed but truly engaged with. It’s about seeing beyond what is immediately appealing and understanding the deeper narrative in each piece."

Additionally, this year marks a deeper engagement with the academic environment, bridging the gap between mainstream practice and formal learning. Dr Festus Adeyemi, Dean of Vocational Education, Federal College of Education Technical, Akoka, Lagos, was delighted that his school will be a major participant at AMIAF 2025. “AMIAF has been very fantastic in giving voice to the voiceless and in the process, creating more awareness for art,” Adeyemi said. “I also commend the collaboration between the town and the gown. It is a very good marriage that will birth good talents and develop skills.”

The Operations Manager of ArtMiabo since the first year of the festival, Uchechukwu Agu stated that the festival primarily thrives on collaboration, not competition. He assured that with sponsorship from major brands like DSTV, JCDecaux, and EbonyLife Studio, the festival will continue to grow.

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