The contributions of nigerian artists and art educators to the development of art education in nigeria

Thesis Abstract

The development of art education in Nigeria has been a
reflection of socio-cultural and political practices; and
social and economic changes from traditional times through
the colonial era to the contemporary period. Despite the
efforts of the artists and art educators, there is
inadequate literature on them to enlighten and educate
readers about their contributions. Also, there has been no
comprehensive study of these artists and art educators, so
they remain anonymous in their professional obligations.
The specific objectives of the study were to determine
the contributions of individuals to art administration, art
education, professional practice in art, publications in
art, and public awareness of art; identify those who have
won special awards/honours; and determine the developmental
1evel of art in Nigeria.
A combination of descriptive and historical research
methods were used and the two types of instruments used were
a questionnaire and an interview guide. Seven selected
artists and art educators (Wangboje, Fasuyi, Okeke, Grille,
Akolo, Ekeada and Ojo) were sampled, while secondary
materials were obtained from books, journal articles,
exhibition catalogues files among others.
The major findings showed that
i. they have made significant contributions to art
administration in the country;
ii. they have played a pioneering role in the
teaching of art and art education at various
levels of education;
iii. they have contributed to professional practice in
art through the holding of exhibitions, the
organization and participation in art workshops
and conferences;
iv. they own private galleries and art training
workshops;
v. they have won National and International
awards/honours; and
vi i i
vi. they have contributed to public awareness in art
through publications, commissions, and community
services among others.
It was concluded that although the colonization of
Nigeria and the early efforts of the missionaries saw to it
that “educated” Nigerians had no regards for their art and
culture, the artists and art educators have made an impact.
This has happened in an environment where the educational
system has not made an overt effort at cultivating cultural
awareness in the elites as well as making them consumers of
their own art.