Renewed Hope
NEXT OF KIN (#6, the continental season)
“RENEWED HOPE: Exploring African Narratives of Resilience and Transformation”
Next of Kin by Thought Pyramid Art Centre is an art competition and exhibition that aims to discover from the hoard of current fast rising artists- one who possesses that peculiar artistic originality and creative disruptiveness with transcending futuristic abilities and traits. Next of Kin celebrates the creative spirit of emerging African artists who have been shaping their unique artistic voices for up to 8 years.
Established in 2018, Next of Kin originally maintained a dedicated focus on Nigeria. Leading up to its momentous 5th Anniversary in October 2022, this art initiative garnered acclaim for spotlighting a cadre of Nigerian global artists. Among them are luminaries like Anthonia Nneji, recipient of the 2018 Next of Kin award, along with subsequent awardees including Omofemi Oluwole, Michael Igwe, Opeyemi Olukotun, and the 2020 victor Christian Allison. Noteworthy mentions also go to Ikechukwu Ezeigwe, who secured victory in 2019, among other remarkable talents.
The resounding triumph of Next of Kin can be attributed to its remarkable ability to unearth and showcase such exceptional artistic prowess.
In its Series 6, the art project is embarking on a broader journey, extending its reach from Nigeria to encompass the African continent. Next of Kin Series 6, the continental season, will feature 20 African artists. The theme for this expansion is “RENEWED HOPE: Exploring African Narratives of Resilience and Transformation”
With this theme, Next of Kin Series 6 (The Continental Season) aims to showcase artworks that reflect the diverse and vibrant stories of hope, renewal, and transformation across the African continent.
The theme for Series 6 of Next of Kin, “RENEWED HOPE,” extends its influence to encompass thematic concepts like:
“Origins of Endurance”: Exploring the abundant cultural legacy and traditions that underpin African resilience and rebirth. Unveiling how ancestral wisdom, customs, and rituals find new life and relevance within modern artistic interpretations.
“Pathways to Change”: Centered on personal and communal transformation, showcasing individual narratives of triumphing over obstacles, embracing change, and embracing personal growth. Artists will encapsulate instances of transition and evolution within their lives and localities.
“Renewing the Natural World”: African terrains, ecosystems, and biodiversity have borne witness to extraordinary rejuvenation and rebirth. Artists will emphasize the intricate relationship between humans and their surroundings, exemplifying how nature’s resilience ignites optimism for a future founded on sustainability.
Entries open October 1, 2023
Registration Open till November 30, 2023
“Empowering Communities and Social Renewal”: Artworks will illuminate endeavors aimed at elevating societies, fostering inclusiveness, and instigating constructive transformations. Artists will delve into themes of social justice, empowerment, and the shared resolve to rejuvenate hope through activism and collaborative endeavors.
“Exploring Novel Forms”: Showcasing experimental and contemporary artistic expressions that defy norms and delve into uncharted mediums. Artists will stretch limits, melding age-old techniques with contemporary approaches to convey their messages of hope and rejuvenation.
Through a diverse range of mediums including painting, sculpture, photography, mixed media, and digital art, “RENEWED HOPE” will provide a platform for emerging African artists to share their stories, inspirations, and visions for a brighter future. This exhibition invites viewers to engage with the resilience and transformational journeys depicted by these artists, sparking meaningful conversations about hope, renewal, and the power of creativity.
Names of Previous Winners:
2018- Anthonia Nneji
2019- Ikechukwu Ezeigwe
2020- Christian Allison
2021- Olalekan Julius
2022- Idowu Emmanuel
Address
96 Norman Williams,
Keffi Awolowo, Ikoyi,
Lagos, Nigeria.
Open Hours
Monday - Friday: 10am – 5pm
Weekends: 10am – 9pm