Call for Applications: Ogbaekirigwe Legacy Art Exhibition
Overview
The Ike‑Elechi Ogba Foundation (IEOF) invites applications from artists for a traditional art exhibition held in honour of Ogbaekirigwe. This exhibition forms part of a special cultural convening that also includes the official book launch of Ogbaekirigwe: The Legacy.
This call is intentionally designed to encourage artistic engagement with the life, leadership, and values of Ogbaekirigwe. Artists are expected to move beyond surface symbolism and produce works that reflect historical understanding, cultural knowledge, and narrative depth.
The exhibition celebrates heritage, craftsmanship, and indigenous artistic expression, spotlighting works rooted in traditional particularly Igbo aesthetics, materials, techniques, and philosophies. Contemporary interpretations are not permitted.
Selected works will be exhibited publicly on March 26, 2026 alongside the book launch ceremony, before an audience of cultural leaders, scholars, creatives, patrons, and community stakeholders.
Key Dates
Submission Deadline: 28 February 2026
Late submissions will not be considered.Exhibition & Book Launch: 26 March 2026
Exhibition Categories & Prize
Artists may apply under one category only.
Each category carries a ₦300,000 prize.
Categories
Painting – acrylic, drawing, charcoal
Sculpture – wood carving, metal work
Decorative Arts – beadwork, textiles
All works must reflect traditional themes, techniques, and cultural narratives rooted in indigenous Igbo heritage.
Eligibility
Applicants must:
Be practicing artists or craftspeople
Submit one original work
Use culturally grounded materials, methods, and forms
Not eligible:
Contemporary, modern, experimental, or conceptual works
Digital or contemporary mixed-media practices
Submission Requirements
Applicants must submit:
Completed application form
A high-quality image of the artwork
Artwork description (max. 300 words)
Artist bio (max. 200 words)
Category selection
Process verification video (mandatory)
Process Verification Video
To ensure authenticity, applicants must submit a short video showing the artist with the completed work in its place of creation.
Video requirements
30 seconds to 2 minutes
Artist must be physically present
Artwork clearly visible
Briefly show:
Work environment
Tools or materials
Artist beside or handling the work
This video is strictly for verification purposes and will not be published.
Failure to submit a satisfactory video will result in disqualification.
Selection Criteria
Submissions will be reviewed by a curatorial panel based on:
Authenticity and adherence to traditional forms
Craftsmanship and technical quality
Cultural depth and storytelling
Visual impact and coherence
The panel’s decision is final.
Exhibition Details
Selected works will be exhibited during the Ogbaekirigwe Book Launch & Memorial Exhibition
Artists will be notified by email
Selected artists are responsible for delivering works in exhibition-ready condition
Further logistics will be shared with shortlisted applicants
Artistic Direction
This exhibition invites traditional artistic interpretations inspired by the life, values, and legacy of Ogbaekirigwe. Artists are not required to depict historical events literally, but should express his legacy through culturally grounded symbols, scenes, and forms.
Suggested Themes
Wisdom & Leadership
Education & Mentorship
Community & Advocacy
Farming & Dignity of Labour
Legacy & Continuity
Artists are encouraged to interpret these themes using traditional materials, techniques, and visual language rooted in indigenous culture.