Halimah Badmus Nominated for the Eko Heritage Awards 2026: Outstanding Contemporary Artist of the Year

Contemporary ceramic and pottery artist Halimah Badmus has been nominated for the prestigious Eko Heritage Awards 2026 in the category of Eko Outstanding Contemporary Artist of the Year. The nomination recognises her outstanding contributions to pottery and ceramics and her innovative use of art to promote climate change awareness and environmental sustainability.

Endorsed by the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, the Eko Heritage Awards honour individuals whose work has made significant contributions to preserving, promoting, and advancing Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.

Halimah Badmus is a contemporary ceramic artist whose practice engages thoughtfully with clay, form, and memory. Her work explores themes of identity, cultural heritage, human connection, and environmental consciousness. Rooted in the traditions of ceramic craftsmanship while embracing contemporary artistic expression, each of her pieces transforms earth into powerful narratives that bridge history, culture, and lived experience.

Her artistic journey has taken her across Nigeria, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Amsterdam, where her work has engaged diverse audiences and inspired conversations around heritage, migration, belonging, and the emotional significance of material culture. She is also a member of the Craft Potters Association (UK), reflecting her growing recognition within the international ceramics community and her commitment to excellence in both artistic practice and craftsmanship.

Beyond the studio, Halimah is passionate about using art as a platform for environmental advocacy. Through her ceramic works, exhibitions, workshops, and public engagements, she raises awareness of climate change and environmental sustainability. Her practice highlights the delicate relationship between humanity and nature, demonstrating that art can be both aesthetically compelling and socially impactful.

Halimah is widely recognised as one of the pioneering artists to introduce pottery and ceramic workshops into secondary schools and community settings in Oyo and Ondo States, Nigeria. This landmark initiative has expanded access to ceramic arts, inspired a new generation of artists, and contributed meaningfully to sustainable community development. Through exhibitions, educational programmes, collaborations, and community-based initiatives, she continues to advance contemporary ceramics while preserving cultural traditions and encouraging environmental responsibility.

She is nominated alongside Peter Kola, Alex Akano, Olumide Ake, and Grace Faniyi, all distinguished artists whose work has contributed significantly to Nigeria’s creative and cultural landscape.

The Eko Heritage Awards are presented annually to honour individuals whose work has strengthened the preservation and promotion of Nigeria’s cultural heritage. The Outstanding Contemporary Artist of the Year category celebrates artists whose creative excellence not only showcases Nigeria’s rich artistic traditions but also demonstrates innovation, cultural relevance, and lasting societal impact.

Halimah Badmus’ nomination stands as a testament to her unwavering commitment to artistic excellence, cultural preservation, arts education, and environmental advocacy. Her work continues to shape the future of contemporary ceramics while honouring the enduring legacy of Nigeria’s artistic heritage.