A-ARTs: Auchi alumni regroup for '1499 Art Force' exhibition

'Identical' (acrylic on canvas, 44.5 x 46.5inches, dated 2025) by Enebeli Franklyn.

DESCRIBED as gathering of majestic assembly of creative unity, 1499 Art Force exhibition is the fourth by distinguished consortium now known as Auchi Art Royale.

The group is a body of 14 accomplished contemporary Nigerian artists—painters and sculptors alike— who are all proud alumni of the renowned Auchi Polytechnic, Auchi, Edo State, class of 1999. Opening from August 10 and ending 23, 2025, at Thought Pyramid Art Centre, 98, Norman Williams Street, Ikoyi, Lagos, the exhibition 1499 Art Force comes with the artistic journey, marked by unity and unflinching commitment to excellence.

The gathering began 12 years ago with their debut exhibition at the National Museum, Lagos. One year after the third edition, the artists now return with renewed purpose, vision, and under a new identity.

"It is a true honour that Thought Pyramid Art Centre, Lagos has been selected as the first gallery to host this newly rebranded collective," stated Olorogun Jeff Ajueshi, Founder and Artistic Director. "We are particularly proud to host '1499 Art Force' not only because each of the 14 exhibiting artists is a celebrated figure in today’s contemporary Nigerian art scene, but because of the values they embody—values we have also championed for the past 18 years: unity, creative brilliance, and cultural continuity."

Ajueshi explained that the title of the exhibition—1499 Art Force—ingeniously merges the group’s graduation year (1999) with the number of its members (14), symbolising both the strength of their bond and the collective creative force they wield. He hopes that as viewers move through the exhibition, they will encounter not just masterful techniques and seasoned styles, but a palpable sense of class and timeless grace reminiscent of royalty—befitting for a group now aptly named Auchi Art Royale.

The exhibition has been described as more than a visual feast, but a celebration of heritage, a reaffirmation of the power of collaboration, and a bold declaration of what is possible when artists grow together and hold one another accountable to elite performance.

And being a gallery that has long committed itself to supporting visionary talents and nurturing platforms that foster collective growth, Thought Pyramid, according to Ajueshi, find deep joy in presenting the exhibition. He hoped that the exhibition will inspire the next generation of artists—particularly undergraduates and recent graduates—to build lasting camaraderie, champion mutual progress, and reinforce the value of our academic institutions in nurturing artistic potential.

Members of Auchi Art Royal include Asuku Musa Momoh, Ashikodi Okwudili, Dudu Emmanuel, Oisereme Pius, Franklyn Enebeli, Joe Nsek, John Anabui, Kingsley Bramah, Klaranze Okhide, Igba Henry, Imhonigie Imoesi, Nosa Osadolor, Ola Balogu, and Titus Agbara.

Auchi Art Royal's sojourn of over 20 years:

"Our journey together began during our academic years, where a deep sense of camaraderie and a shared passion for artistic excellence bonded us. This collaborative spirit has remained the foundation of our growth and artistic development to this day.

"Following our graduation in 1999 and after fulfilling our National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) obligations,

we made efforts to regroup in Lagos—the epicenter of Nigeria’s art scene. Although it was a challenge at the time due to the absence of social media and limited access to communication tools, a few of us managed to reconnect. This led to our first group exhibition in 2003, titled “Kindred Spirit”, held at the National Museum, Lagos. Featuring Ola Balogun, Dudu Emmanuel, and Titus Agbara, the exhibition was a resounding success.

"In 2007, after four years of meticulous planning, we held our second exhibition, “Free Style”, at the Harmattan Gallery, Lagos. This exhibition included more members and further solidified our presence in the Nigerian art scene. Participating artists were Titus Agbara, Dudu Emmanuel, Imhonigie Imoesi, Joe Nsek, Franklyn Enebeli, and Nosa Osadolor.

"Three years later, in 2010, we organized another exhibition titled “Intrinsic” at the African Artists’ Foundation (AAF), Lagos. This show marked a significant moment for the group as we welcomed additional members, expanding our creative reach. The exhibiting artists included Asuku Musa Momoh, Dudu Emmanuel, Imhonigie Imoesi, Klaranze Okhide, Titus Agbara, Joe Nsek, Franklyn Enebeli and Ola Balogun.

"In 2024, we proudly celebrated our 25th anniversary with a major group exhibition titled “Constellation” at Iwalewa Gallery, Lagos. This landmark event featured all 14 members, officially marking the complete formation of the group.

"In 2025, we rebranded from Auchi Class ’99 to Auchi Art Royal, a name that reflects both our heritage and aspirations. We successfully registered Auchi Art Royal as an official artist collective with the Corporate Affairs Commission of Nigeria. As part of our growth strategy, we launched a signature annual exhibition series titled “1499 Art Force”, representing our 14 members and the year we graduated.

"Our mission is to contribute meaningfully to the Nigerian and global art landscape through annual exhibitions, workshops, and art events. We are committed to promoting creativity, cultural heritage, and artistic innovation."

self-reflection inspired olusola's watercolour