Israeli Embassy Rewards Three Nigerian Undergraduates For Art Works.

By Ferdinand Olise

The Embassy of Israel in Nigeria has rewarded three Nigerian undergraduates for their talents in the works of art.

Speaking at an event tagged “Upcycling Art exhibition for Emerging Artists In Nigeria” on Wednesday, the Deputy Ambassador of Israel to Nigeria, Inbar Lipman Garden said, the event was more than just an exhibition, but a celebration of connection, creativity and cultural dialogue .She said “This unique collaboration between Nigerian universities and the Embassy of Israel brings to life an idea we hold dear: that art has the power to transcend borders, bridge differences, and create meaningful conversations between people and nations”.

“Israel and Nigeria may be separated by geography, but we are united by shared values-vibrant cultures, rich histories, deep spirituality, and a passion for innovation and expression” she added.

The exhibition with the Theme “Revive and Reimagine: Celebrating Israel and Nigeria’s Heritage through Upcycled Art” was made more inspiring as the art works were made from re-usable wastes which the Artists recycled.

The Deputy Ambassador further stated that this creative approach not only reflects a commitment to sustainability, but also symbolizes the idea of transformation, taking something discarded and turning it into beauty, meaning, and dialogue.

“The artworks displayed here tonight reflect the voices of a new generation young artists who explore the connections between Nigeria and Israel through color,
texture, and story.

“They challenge us to think differently and invite us to imagine what cultural exchange can look like in its most creative form.
Cultural diplomacy plays a vital role in strengthening ties between nations. And tonight, we see it in action-in the paint on canvas, in the conversations sparked by these pieces.

“This is a reminder that diplomacy does not only happen in meeting rooms and official halls. It happens here too on gallery walls, on university campuses, and in shared artistic journeys”, she said.

She therefore thanked their partner Institutions, the participating Artists, the Faculty members who guided the young Artists, and everyone who contributed to making the vision a reality.

“Your dedication, talent, and spirit of collaboration are deeply appreciated. May your journey in art continue to flourish, and may you keep inspiring many more through your creativity”, she said.

She also extended her appreciation to the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Africa Art Fund, Mr. Ife, a newly founded Pan-African non-profit organization dedicated to supporting, and sustaining the growth of the African creative sector through Art and Culture.

The Deputy Ambassador Garden therefore urged everyone to reflect on what connects Israel and Nigeria, and how Art can
continue to build bridges of understanding, friendship, and peace between Nigeria and Israel.

The 3 Nigerian Artists who earned the Award from the Embassy in the order of 1st, 2nd, and 3rd prizes wre; Safiu Ibrahim, Student of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife Osun State, winning the sum of N500,000, Ezeora Favour Chidera, Student of University of Nsuka, Enugu State, winning N250,000, and Chibuike Emenike, Student of University of Jos, won N200,000.

They expressed gratitude to the Israeli Embassy, and appreciated the gesture, as they displayed enthusiasm to attain greater heights in their Artistry.

The Upcycling Art Project is a pioneering initiative of the Embassy of Israel that blends creativity with sustainability, transforming discarded materials into exquisite works of Arts.