Events

On Tuesday, 23 May, 2023, Centre for Black Culture and International Understanding held a special forum to celebrate a charismatic international artist, Chief Mrs. Oyenike Monica Okundaye, founder of Nike Arts Gallery. The celebration, which was her 72nd birthday, also coincided with the 55th birthday anniversary of promoting and exhibiting Contemporary African Art. It was an assembly of eminent personalities including monarchs, traditionalists, academia, community leaders, stakeholders in art industry and students. The Chairman of the event, Aare (Dr.) Ifagbenusola Olalekan Atanda praised Chief Okundaye for putting Osun and Nigeria on the global map. He said, “She made herself somebody out of nobody, and she didn’t allow that success to get into her mind and make her a pompous person. She uses her talent to uplift other people across the globe. “This is a woman who has been sent by Eledumare to set an example of how humans should be. To everyone here today, my advice to you is that you should strive to make yourself somebody out of nobody, and not to hide it but to share it with others. Today, she is a name to be reckoned with in the whole universe. She has made an impact both here and abroad. I knew her when she was nobody, and I thank Eledumare. I also knew her when she was somebody, not just somebody, but somebody very special.”

The Guest lecturer, Prof. Peju Layiwola described Chief Nike Okundaye as an epitome of resilience, who has overcome numerous trials as a girl and woman but never give up on her pursuit of excellence in her career and making a significant impact across the globe. “Mama Nike is an epitome of resilience globally, who has gone through many trials but prevailed as a girl and a woman to become one of the most successful artists in Africa. Like gold, Nike has been admired over the years for her steadfastness and amiable personality across the globe. She is a distinctive art entrepreneur, a human rights advocate, an art administrator, a dancer, a singer, and a philanthropist par excellence.”

During an interview with the media, the celebrant, Chief Okundaye, expressed her gratitude to the organizers and shared valuable advice for upcoming artists while also urging parents to support their children’s artistic aspirations. “My advice for young and upcoming artists is for them to have focus. Anything they know they are good at; they should do it well and follow their heart. When I came to Osogbo, I did not have anything. If you can make me become somebody, Osun Osogbo, if you can make me become somebody in my life, I will always talk about you. Today, I thank God and I want all the young, especially the females who have a mission to become artists, to follow their hearts, work hard, and be patient. Whatever somebody wants to do, they have to have patience. Things will happen along the way. Nobody is perfect, but you will always get to where you are going. Be patient. There is nothing patience cannot do. I want to say to the parents, if you see your children have talent, don’t force them to pursue another job. Let them follow their hearts and support them. Today, the best-selling artist from the whole 54 countries is a young Nigerian girl. Her work is going for $3.4 million, which is 3.6 billion naira. This is just one painting.” We are pleading with the government to create more centers for people who have no job. This is a job. You can start behind your yard. I used to teach behind my yard. That is when Oyinbo came to take me overseas to teach weaving, which was my first breakthrough. After that, it was Adire Eleko and Aaro. Follow what you’re doing well, and the sky is your beginning.” Earlier in his welcome address the Director of the Centre, Professor Siyan Oyeweso acknowledged Chief Okundaye as an exemplary role model for disadvantaged individuals, emphasizing that she was not born with silver spoon but managed to succeed against all odds. “As a role model for disadvantaged people across all walks of life, Chief Okundaye was not born with any form of privilege, whether a silver spoon or anything of the sort. She grew up in very difficult and challenging conditions, with limited education. However, she has triumphed against all odds. Today, any girl child, regardless of her background, can see her as a role model.”

The event attendees explored an exhibition showcasing some of Chief Okundaye’s remarkable artworks, further highlighting her artistic prowess and contributions to the art world.