Congratulations to Yinka Shonibare and Kaloki Nyamai, who have been named to the newly formed Artist Council at The Museum of West African Art (MOWAA), slated to open its doors in Benin City, Nigeria on November 11, 2025.
This opening marks a significant moment in the evolution of cultural institutions on the African continent. As part of this landmark occasion, MOWAA has also unveiled the formation of its inaugural Artist Council, a dynamic body of leading contemporary African and diasporic artists committed to shaping the future of artistic expression and institutional engagement across Africa and beyond
Council members were selected for their involvement with institutions or cultural organizations across the continent–either as founders or advisors–opening pathways for collaboration with MOWAA through joint initiatives and special projects that encourage deeper engagement and shared impact.
Alongside Shonibare and Nyamai, confirmed council members include: Michael Armitage (b. 1984, Nairobi, Kenya), Nairobi Contemporary ArtInstitute (NCAI); Victor Ehikhamenor (b.1970, Lagos, Nigeria), Angels & Muse and Black Muse; Nengi Omuku (b.1987, Lagos, Nigeria), TAOH Africa; and Dr. Odun Orimolade (Lagos, Nigeria), Yaba Art Museum.
The Council reflects MOWAA’s commitment to reimagining and asserting the primacy of African and diasporic cultural production on its own terms, while grounding urgent discourse in real spaces and active practice. Members will serve two-year terms, with the possibility of extension to support continuity and deeper engagement. Their role spans mentorship in education and residency programs, and advising on exhibitions and research labs to ensure alignment with real-time artistic urgencies. As ambassadors, Council members will foster two-way exchanges across Africa and globally–championing African practice abroad while bringing fresh perspectives home.