Philosophy of Art;

Art is a complex and multifaceted concept that has been debated and discussed by philosophers for
centuries. From Plato to Nietzsche to contemporary thinkers, the philosophy of art has been explored
from various perspectives, each offering unique insights and critiques of the nature and purpose of art.
Some of the key philosophical theories of art, including the mimetic theory, the expressive theory, and
the formalist theory.

One of the oldest and most traditional theories of art is the mimetic theory, which holds that art imitates
or represents reality. According to this view, art is valued for its ability to accurately depict the world
around us and to provide a window into reality. This theory was first articulated by Plato in his Republic,
where he argued that art was a mere imitation of reality and that the ideal society should banish all art
that did not promote virtue.

However, this view has been subject to much criticism over the years, particularly by those who argue
that art is not simply a copy of reality but an interpretation or expression of it. This leads us to the
expressive theory of art, which holds that art is valuable because it communicates the emotions and
experiences of the artist. In this view, art is not about representing the external world but about
expressing the internal world of the artist.

While the expressive theory offers a compelling critique of the mimetic theory, it too has its limitations.
One of the criticisms of the expressive theory is that it can be subjective and personal, meaning that the
viewer's interpretation of the artwork may be vastly different from the artist's intended meaning.
Additionally, some have argued that the emphasis on the artist's emotions can overshadow the aesthetic
qualities of the artwork, reducing it to a mere reflection of the artist's psychological state.

Finally, we have the formalist theory of art, which emphasizes the formal qualities of the artwork, such
as its composition, color, and texture. According to this view, art is valuable because of its aesthetic
qualities and the pleasure it provides to the viewer. In other words, art is valued not for what it
represents or expresses but for its intrinsic qualities as an object.

While the formalist theory has been criticized for ignoring the social and historical context of art, it has
also been lauded for its ability to shift the focus from the artist or the external world to the artwork
itself. By emphasizing the formal qualities of the artwork, the formalist theory encourages us to
appreciate art for its own sake and to experience the pleasure and beauty it provides.

The philosophy of art is a complex and nuanced subject that has been explored from various
perspectives throughout history. While each theory offers unique insights and critiques of the nature and
purpose of art, no single theory can fully capture the complexity and diversity of art.

Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)

The Art Department of Obafemi Awolowo University, located in Ile-Ife, Nigeria, is one of the leading art
institutions in Africa. The department offers a range of courses in various fields of visual arts, including
painting, sculpture, graphics, textiles, ceramics, and art history.

The department has a highly qualified faculty, many of whom are practicing artists, and offers excellent
facilities for research, learning, and creativity. The students are encouraged to develop their artistic skills
and explore their creativity in a supportive and stimulating environment.

Over the years, the Art Department of Obafemi Awolowo University has produced many successful
artists, who have gone on to make significant contributions to the art world both nationally and
internationally. The department also hosts regular exhibitions and events, showcasing the work of its
students and faculty, and contributing to the vibrant cultural life of the university and the wider
community.

Here are some notable works created by artists associated with the Fine Art Department at the Obafemi
Awolowo University (OAU) in Nigeria:

1. "The Spirit of Twins" by Bruce Onobrakpeya: Bruce Onobrakpeya is a Nigerian artist who is
known for his prints and sculptures that often incorporate traditional African motifs and
symbols. "The Spirit of Twins" is a mixed media work that depicts a pair of twins in traditional
dress, and it is one of his most celebrated works.
2. "The Dancers" by Nike Davies-Okundaye: Nike Davies-Okundaye is a Nigerian artist who is known
for her colorful paintings and textiles that often draw on Yoruba culture and tradition. "The
Dancers" is a vibrant painting that depicts a group of women in traditional dress, and it has
become an iconic symbol of Nigerian art.
3. "Ancestral Voices" by Twins Seven-Seven: Twins Seven-Seven was a Nigerian artist who is known
for his paintings and sculptures that often incorporate elements of Yoruba mythology and
folklore. "Ancestral Voices" is a mixed media work that depicts a group of figures in traditional
dress, and it is considered one of his most important works.
4. "The Bride" by Yinka Shonibare: Yinka Shonibare is a British-Nigerian artist who is known for his
sculptures and installations that explore themes of race, identity, and colonialism. "The Bride" is
a life-size sculpture of a woman in a Victorian dress, but the dress is made from African-inspired
fabrics that challenge traditional notions of cultural authenticity.
5. "The Mask Series" by Ade Adekola: Ade Adekola is a Nigerian artist who creates paintings and
mixed media works that often explore themes of identity and spirituality. "The Mask Series" is a
collection of works that incorporates masks and other found objects, and it challenges viewers to
think about the ways in which we present ourselves to the world.

These are just a few examples of the many notable works that have been created by artists associated
with the Fine Art Department at the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) in Nigeria.
 University of Nigeria Nssuka (UNN)

The Art Department of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka is one of the foremost art institutions in Nigeria,
and indeed, Africa. The department offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in
various fields of art, including painting, sculpture, ceramics, textiles, and art history.

The department has a well-equipped studio and workshop facilities, as well as a library and gallery
space, which serve as a resource for both students and faculty. The department has a highly qualified
faculty, made up of practicing artists and academics who are experts in their respective fields.

The Art Department of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka has a rich history of producing some of Nigeria's
most celebrated artists, including Ben Enwonwu, El Anatsui, and Nnenna Okore, among others. The
department also hosts regular exhibitions, workshops, and seminars, which provide opportunities for
students and faculty to engage with the wider artistic community and showcase their work.

The Art Department of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka is committed to promoting excellence in art
education and research, and fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for all students and faculty
 1. "Broken Pots" by El Anatsui: El Anatsui is a Ghanaian artist who is known for his large-scale
sculptures made from recycled materials, such as bottle caps and scrap metal. "Broken Pots"
is one of his most famous works, and it was created while he was teaching at the University
of Nigeria Nsukka in the 1990s.

2. "Father and Son" by Ben Enwonwu: Ben Enwonwu is a Nigerian artist who is often credited
with helping to establish a modern art movement in Nigeria. "Father and Son" is a wooden
sculpture that depicts a father holding his son from the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. It is
one of his most celebrated works and has become an iconic symbol of Nigerian art.
3. "Aka-na-uba" by Obiora Udechukwu: Obiora Udechukwu is a Nigerian artist who is known
for his paintings and prints that often incorporate traditional Igbo motifs and symbols. "Aka-
na-uba" is one of his most famous works, and it depicts a group of women in colorful
clothing and head wraps.
4. "The Legacy" by Chike Aniakor: Chike Aniakor was a Nigerian artist and art historian who was
known for his paintings and sculptures that explored Igbo culture and tradition. "The Legacy"
is a bronze sculpture that depicts a group of Igbo men in traditional dress, and it is
considered one of his most important works.
5. "My Mother's Prayer" by Chike Obeagu: Chike Obeagu is a Nigerian artist who creates
paintings and mixed media works that often explore themes of spirituality and identity. "My
Mother's Prayer" is a mixed media work that incorporates textiles and found objects, and it
was inspired by the artist's mother's devotion to prayer.

These are just a few examples of the many notable works that have been created by artists associated
with the Fine Art Department at the University of Nigeria Nsukka.
 Philosophy of Art; Ahmadu Bello University

The Art Department of Ahmadu Bello University, located in Zaria, Nigeria, is one of the leading art
institutions in West Africa. The department offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various
fields of art, including painting, sculpture, graphics, textiles, and art history.

The department has a highly qualified faculty, with many practicing artists and academics who are
experts in their respective fields. The students are encouraged to develop their creative skills and explore
their artistic interests in a supportive and stimulating environment.

The Art Department of Ahmadu Bello University has state-of-the-art studio and workshop facilities, as
well as a well-equipped library and gallery space, which serve as a resource for both students and
faculty. The department also hosts regular exhibitions, workshops, and seminars, providing opportunities
for students and faculty to engage with the wider artistic community and showcase their work.

Over the years, the Art Department of Ahmadu Bello University has produced many successful artists
who have gone on to make significant contributions to the art world both nationally and internationally.
The department is committed to promoting excellence in art education and research and creating a
vibrant and inclusive community of artists and scholars.

Certainly. Ahmadu Bello University is known for its contributions to the world of art and culture through
the work of its students, faculty, and alumni. Some of the notable works that have emerged from the
Department of Fine Arts at Ahmadu Bello University include:

1. "The Crying Child" by Aisha Abubakar - a powerful and emotionally charged painting that depicts
the suffering and vulnerability of children in conflict zones.
2. "The Market Women" by Chinwe Ifejika - a striking and vibrant painting that celebrates the
 strength and resilience of Nigerian women in the face of adversity.
3. "The Mask Series" by Mahmood Ahmadu - a collection of intricately carved masks that explore
the relationship between tradition and modernity in Nigerian culture.
4. "The Wind and the Whirlwind" by Fatima Mamman - a haunting and evocative sculpture that
reflects on the impact of climate change on African communities.
5. "The Performance Series" by Sadiq Daba - a series of photographs that capture the energy and
vitality of Nigerian music and dance.

These works and many others have helped to establish Ahmadu Bello University as a hub of artistic and
cultural innovation in Nigeria and beyond. They demonstrate the diversity, richness, and vitality of
Nigerian art and culture, and serve as an inspiration to future generations of artists and thinkers.

Yaba College of Technology (Yabatech)

The Art Department of Yaba College of Technology, located in Lagos, Nigeria, is one of the leading art
institutions in the country. The department offers a range of undergraduate programs in various fields of
art, including fine arts, design, sculpture, graphics, and textiles.

The department has a highly qualified faculty, made up of practicing artists and academics who are
experts in their respective fields. The students are encouraged to develop their creative skills and explore
their artistic interests in a supportive and stimulating environment.

The Art Department of Yaba College of Technology has well-equipped studio and workshop facilities, as
well as a library and gallery space, which serve as a resource for both students and faculty. The
department also hosts regular exhibitions and events, showcasing the work of its students and faculty
and contributing to the vibrant cultural life of the college and the wider community.

The Art Department of Yaba College of Technology has a reputation for producing many successful artists
and designers, who have gone on to make significant contributions to the art world and creative
industries both nationally and internationally. The department is committed to promoting excellence in
art education and research and creating a dynamic and inclusive community of artists and designers.

Yabatech's Department of Art is known for producing many notable works of art that reflect the themes
and principles of the philosophy of art. Some of the notable works include:

1. "The Egungun Masquerade" by Oluwole Omofemi - a vibrant and colorful painting that
celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba people in Nigeria.
2. "The Enigma" by Adejoke Tugbiyele - a powerful sculpture that explores issues of gender,
identity, and sexuality in African society.
3. "The Freedom Series" by Olu Amoda - a collection of paintings that reflect on the struggles and
triumphs of Nigeria's struggle for independence.
4. "The Lineage Series" by Yusuf Grillo - a series of intricate and detailed paintings that celebrate
the rich artistic heritage of Nigeria and Africa.
5. "The Future is Female" by Nkechi Ebubedike - a thought-provoking sculpture that challenges
traditional gender roles and celebrates the empowerment of women.

These works and many others demonstrate the diversity, richness, and vibrancy of Nigerian art and
culture. They reflect the themes and principles of the philosophy of art that are taught and practiced in
Yabatech's Department of Art. They also serve as an inspiration to future generations of artists and
thinkers, highlighting the important role that art plays in shaping and reflecting the culture and values of
a society.

Philosophy of Art; University of Benin (UNIBEN)

The Art Department of the University of Benin, located in Benin City, Nigeria, is one of the leading art
institutions in the country. The department offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs
in various fields of art, including fine arts, sculpture, graphics, ceramics, fashion design, metal design,
graphics and communication,and art history.

The department has a highly qualified faculty, made up of practicing artists and academics who are
experts in their respective fields. The students are encouraged to develop their creative skills and explore
their artistic interests in a supportive and stimulating environment.

The Art Department of the University of Benin has well-equipped studio and workshop facilities, as well
as a library and gallery space, which serve as a resource for both students and faculty. The department
also hosts regular exhibitions and events, showcasing the work of its students and faculty and
contributing to the vibrant cultural life of the university and the wider community.

Over the years, the Art Department of the University of Benin has produced many successful artists, who
have gone on to make significant contributions to the art world both nationally and internationally. The
department is committed to promoting excellence in art education and research and creating a dynamic
and inclusive community of artists and scholars

Notable works that have emerged from UNIBEN's Department of Fine and Applied Arts include:

1. "The House of Hunger" by Victor Ekpuk - a striking and evocative painting that explores the
themes of hunger and poverty in African society.
2. "The Sacred Prostitute" by Lucy Ekpenisi - a thought-provoking sculpture that challenges
traditional gender roles and celebrates the empowerment of women.
3. "The Edo Series" by Ben Osawe - a collection of paintings and sculptures that reflect on the rich
cultural heritage of the Edo people in Nigeria.
4. "The Dialogue Series" by Duke Asidere - a series of paintings that explore the relationships
between people and their environments.
5. "The Waste Series" by Sam Ovraiti - a collection of sculptures that reflect on the impact of waste
and pollution on the environment.

UNIBEN's Department of Fine and Applied Arts has also been home to many notable lecturers who have
made significant contributions to the philosophy of art. These include:

Prof. El Anatsui - a world-renowned artist who has been a lecturer in the department for over 30 years.
He is known for his large-scale installations made from recycled materials that explore themes of
identity, globalization, and the environment.

Prof. Bruce Onobrakpeya - a pioneer of modern Nigerian art and a lecturer in the department for over 40
years. He is known for his innovative printmaking techniques that combine traditional Nigerian art forms
with contemporary aesthetics.

Dr. Ken Okoli - a lecturer in the department who specializes in art history and theory. He has published
numerous articles and books on African art and culture, and has played an important role in shaping the
department's curriculum.

Prof. Sam Ovraiti - a lecturer in the department who is also a practicing artist. He is known for his
powerful and thought-provoking sculptures that address issues of social justice and environmental
sustainability.

Prof. Emmanuel Ejiro

 University of Port-Harcourt (UNIPORT)

The Art Department of the University of Port-Harcourt, located in Rivers State, Nigeria, is a leading art
institution in the country. The department offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various
fields of art, including fine arts, graphics, sculpture, ceramics, and art history.

The department has a highly qualified faculty, made up of practicing artists and academics who are
experts in their respective fields. The students are encouraged to develop their creative skills and explore
their artistic interests in a supportive and stimulating environment.

The Art Department of the University of Port-Harcourt has well-equipped studio and workshop facilities,
as well as a library and gallery space, which serve as a resource for both students and faculty. The
department also hosts regular exhibitions and events, showcasing the work of its students and faculty
and contributing to the vibrant cultural life of the university and the wider community.

Over the years, the Art Department of the University of Port-Harcourt has produced many successful
artists, who have gone on to make significant contributions to the art world both nationally and
internationally. The department is committed to promoting excellence in art education and research and
creating a dynamic and inclusive community of artists and scholars.

Notable works that have emerged from UNIPORT's Department of Fine Arts and Design include:

1. "The Anatomy of Corruption" by Chike Aniakor - a striking and provocative series of paintings
that explore the themes of corruption and political decay in Nigeria.
2. "The Redemption of Africa" by Ken Saro-Wiwa - a thought-provoking installation that challenges
traditional Western stereotypes of Africa and celebrates the continent's rich cultural heritage.
3. "The Mask Series" by Uche Okeke - a collection of paintings and sculptures that reflect on the
 importance of masks in traditional African culture.
4. "The Environmental Series" by Ngozi Akande - a collection of paintings and mixed media works
that address issues of environmental degradation and sustainability.

UNIPORT's Department of Fine Arts and Design has also been home to many notable lecturers who have
made significant contributions to the philosophy of art. These include:

Prof. Chike Aniakor - a renowned artist and scholar who was one of the founders of the department. He
is known for his innovative use of color and form in his paintings, as well as his insightful commentary on
African art and culture.

Prof. Ken Saro-Wiwa - a writer, activist, and artist who taught in the department for several years before
his untimely death. He is known for his powerful and thought-provoking works that address issues of
social justice and environmental sustainability.

Dr. Uche Okeke - a painter, sculptor, and scholar who was also one of the founders of the department. He
is known for his pioneering work in developing a modern Nigerian art that is rooted in traditional African
aesthetics.

Prof. Ngozi Akande - a multimedia artist and scholar who specializes in environmental art. She has
published numerous articles and books on the intersection of art, ecology, and sustainability.

Prof. Krydz Ikwuemesi - a painter, curator, and scholar who is currently the head of the department. He is
known for his insightful