ABU Zaria and Garga Art Galleries Host Workshop on Provenance and Documentation in Nigerian Art

The Department of Fine Arts, Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, in collaboration with Garga Art Galleries, held a workshop on Tuesday, 23rd September 2025, themed “Enhancing Art Value through Provenance and Documentation.” The event, organized under the leadership of renowned artist and academic Prof. Lasisi Lamidi, brought together leading scholars, practitioners, and art stakeholders.

In his remarks, Aliyu Aminu Ahmed, CEO of Garga Art Galleries, represented by Dr. Abdulmalik Aminu, highlighted the urgent need for structured systems of provenance and documentation in Nigeria’s art ecosystem. He noted that Northern Nigeria, despite its wealth of talented artists, has lagged in archival support, not due to lack of expertise but due to weak institutional frameworks.

The workshop featured presentations from distinguished scholars including Prof. S. I. Chafe, Prof. Gambo D. Duniya, Prof. Gushen Philip, Prof. K. I. Tijani, and Prof. Lasisi Lamidi, alongside industry practitioners. Discussions focused on how proper documentation can enhance the global recognition and value of Nigerian art.

The event also showcased the “Diamonds in the Rough: 2nd Miniature Art Exhibition”, which celebrated the diversity and richness of contemporary Nigerian art. Ahmed expressed humility in exhibiting his works, describing it as an honor to present before such distinguished academics and experts.

The workshop closed with a call to action for more research, collaboration, and institutional support to safeguard Nigerian art. “Together, we must ensure that our art is not only created but also curated, valued, respected, and celebrated worldwide,” Ahmed said.