Chike Nwagbogu runs the Nimbus Art Centre and Bogobiri Hotel, together with a partner. Just 500 meters down the road you will find the headquarters and gallery of the African Artists’ Foundation (AAF), led by his brother Azu Nwagbogu.“Truly, this is a time to reflect and learn about our rich cultural and artistic heritage,” says Azu. “There is so much wealth out there and while I sincerely hope people collect art that they immediately like, I also hope collectors grow and also begin investing in art that they might not have appreciated the first time around.”
Chike believes Nigeria’s artistic boom is being inspired by suffering. “Popular culture is often born out of oppression and suffering. And Nigeria is oppressed. Look, puppets of the military are still running our country. Our president doesn’t have a clue what he is doing. It’s pathetic. I want to give a podium to the most angry, creative, fearless artist out there. We need change now, and art can do that.”
