Benin City's New Creative District to Boost Local Art and Culture
In Benin City, Nigeria, the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) is set to establish a Creative District spanning 8 hectares. This initiative aims to nurture young cultural professionals and foster partnerships with West African institutions, thereby enhancing economic and cultural growth in the region. Governor Godwin Obaseki underscored its significance in reinstating Benin City's status as an arts capital, diversifying the local economy, and generating employment for the youth. Unveiled during an Open Day in June 2023, the district will include the Pavilion (scheduled to open in 2024), Rainforest Gallery, Artisans Hall, and an Art Guesthouse. The project is spearheaded by Adjaye Associates alongside MOE+ Art Architecture, Studio Contra, and Worofila, located near Igun Street, the Victor Uwaifo Center, and the Oba Akenzua Cultural Centre. MOWAA's director, Phillip Ihenacho, stressed the goal of creating a self-sustaining environment for creatives.
Key facts
- MOWAA is creating an 8-hectare Creative District in Benin City, Nigeria.
- The district is designed to support young cultural professionals and collaborate with West African institutions.
- Godwin Obaseki, Governor of Edo State, supports the project to restore Benin City's cultural capital role.
- Plans were revealed at an Open Day in June 2023.
- The Pavilion (research and conservation center) is set to open in 2024.
- The district includes Rainforest Gallery, Artisans Hall, Art Guesthouse, and Pavilion.
- Adjaye Associates leads the design with MOE+ Art Architecture, Studio Contra, and Worofila.
- The site is near Igun Street, Victor Uwaifo Center, Oba Akenzua Cultural Centre, and ancient Benin Kingdom ruins.
Entities
Institutions
- Museum of West African Art
- MOWAA
- Adjaye Associates
- MOE+ Art Architecture
- Studio Contra
- Worofila
- Victor Uwaifo Center
- Oba Akenzua Cultural Centre
Locations
- Benin City
- Nigeria
- Edo State
- Igun Street
- Accra
- Lagos
- Dakar
- London
- New York