Young Artists Shine at ‘Rainbow Art: Unlocking Creativity 2024’ in Abuja
The vibrant hues of youthful imagination took center stage on Thursday, May 2nd, 2025; as the National Gallery of Art, hosted the 2024 edition of its annual Unlocking Creativity program. Held at Atiku Hall, Federal Secretariat, Abuja, the one-day event brought together budding artists, educators, and cultural leaders to celebrate the theme: “Rainbow Art: Unlocking Creativity 2024 – Visual Art: Renewed Hope for a New Nigeria.”
This year’s program focused on two key disciplines — painting and drawing — streamlining its former seven-segment structure to offer deeper creative engagement. Students from four schools in the Federal Capital Territory participated: Faith Academy, Total Child Model School, Pass Academy, and Government Secondary School Nyanya.
In her opening address, Mrs. Gbujie Jane-Frances, Director of Educational Services at the National Gallery of Art, emphasized the program’s mission to empower youth through artistic expression.
“Every brushstroke and pencil mark offers a glimpse into the aspirations of our young people,” she said. “This initiative is about more thanjust art; it’s about healing, identity, and national development.”
The event underscored how visual arts can be a platform for dialogue, reflection, and unity in Nigeria’s evolving cultural.
The ceremony was graced by prominent figures from Nigeria’s arts and culture sectors, including representatives from the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture and the Creative Economy, National Theatre, National Troupe of Nigeria, and Nigeria Tourism Development Corporation. Guests praised the Gallery’s consistent efforts to nurture creative talent and promote unity through the arts.
The program featured inter-school competitions in painting and drawing, judged by respected curators Mrs. Pilaku Lilian and Mr. Tom Sunday, with assistance from Educational Services staff members Amina Mukailu and Adekemi Taiwo.
Painting Winners:
• 1st Place: Esther Oyeneyin
• 2nd Place: Akinwade Shina
• 3rd Place: Enoruwa Ebuwa
Drawing Winners:
• 1st Place: Odika Kennedy
• 2nd Place: Udoh Uriel
• 3rd Place: Chisom Okwosa
Attendees also enjoyed a lively cultural performance by students from Total Child Model School, Dutse Makaranta. Awards and certificates were presented to the top-performing artists, celebrating their creativity and dedication.
Beyond the competition, Unlocking Creativity serves as a strategic platform to:
• Strengthen collaboration between schools and the National Gallery of Art
• Enhance visibility for young Nigerian artists
• Promote African art in the global creative landscape
• Encourage emotional expression and personal growth among youth
Organizers called for the expansion of the program to include more schools and stakeholders, along with increased funding to amplify its impact.
As Nigeria looks to the future, Rainbow Art: Unlocking Creativity 2024 affirmed that art remains a vital tool for national cohesion, youth empowerment, and cultural advancement. Through initiatives like this, the next generation of Nigerian artists is finding its voice — one brushstroke at a time.
By Oparaugo Precious
