Spotlight on Nigeria at the V&A: Culture, Creativity, and Design

Through curator insights, artist conversations and gallery journeys, delve into the stories behind textiles, ceramics, costume, art, sculpture, posters, print and photography.  Discover the bold creativity of traditional craft practices alongside the powerful narratives embedded in both historic and contemporary works. This event invites you to explore the collections through contemporary perspectives, uncovering connections between past and present, local and global histories, and heritage and innovation.

Bringing together an exceptional line-up of artists, curators and cultural practitioners, see updated programme below:

11.30 - 12.00
Arrival, Registration, Activity Sign-Up, and Refreshments.
Learning Centre, Lobby 2, Level 1

12.00 - 12.15 
Welcome and Opening Event Introductions.
Hochhauser Auditorium, Learning Centre, Level 1

12.15 - 13.00 
Bound Together: Leather from Northern Nigeria - presentation with Dr Eva Namusoke, Senior Curator, African Collections Futures, Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge.
Hochhauser Auditorium, Learning Centre, Level 1

13.00 - 13.15
Audience Q&A with Eva Namusoke.
Hochhauser Auditorium, Learning Centre, Level 1

13.15 - 13.30
Ticket Holders - Selecting Your Next Activity
Use this time to select your next activity and make your way to the allocated room.

13.30 - 14.45
1.  Adire Textile History and Handling Workshop with Jessica Harpley, Assistant Curator Fashion, V&A.

2.  Prints, Posters and Photography with Ella Ravilious, Curator, Architecture and Design, V&A, and Isaac  Huxtable, Assistant Curator, Photography, V&A.

3.  Tour of Nigerian Objects across the V&A galleries, including Ceramics, Silver, and Design 1900 - Now with Nadia Denton, African Heritage Tour Guide, V&A.

Please select ONE activity above. Capacity is limited to 20 places per activity and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. To view prints, posters and photographs, coats and bags must be left with Security in the Prints & Drawings Study Room foyer before entry. Some activities repeat later in the programme.

14.45 - 15.15
Comfort Break for your packed lunches or snacks. Beverages will be available.
Learning Centre, Lobby 2, Level 1

15.15 - 15.25
Welcome back and afternoon introductions.
Hochhauser Auditorium, Learning Centre, Level 1

15.25 - 16.10
At the Threshold: When Gods and Mortals Dance - an in conversation with Artist Oliver Enwonwu and Nike Awoyinka, Senior Higher Education Leader and Global Consultant. There will be an opportunity to view the artist's paintings.

16.10 - 16.25
Audience Q&A with Oliver Enwonwu and Nike Awoyinka.
Hochhauser Auditorium, Learning Centre, Level 1

16.30 - 17.45
1.  Challenging the Lens: Artist Talk and Display Viewing with V&A & Adobe Artist Resident Michael Akuagwu.

2.  Prints, Posters and Photography with Ella Ravilious, Curator, Architecture and Design, V&A, and Isaac  Huxtable, Assistant Curator, Photography, V&A.

3.  Nigerian Art: From Ancient Traditions to Global Impact - Nigeria on Tour Across the Museum with Stella-Kemi Akintan, African Heritage Tour Guide, V&A.

Please select ONE activity above. Capacity is limited to 20 places per activity and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. To view prints, posters and photographs, coats and bags must be left with Security in the Prints and Drawings Study Room foyer before entry. 

17.30 - 18.00

Final gathering, visitor comments, feedback, and networking.
Learning Centre Reception, Street Level

Whether you're encountering Nigerian culture for the first time or bringing your own knowledge and experience to the conversation, join us to celebrate the richness of Nigerian heritage and its global influence on design, creativity and culture. Expect lively discussion, fresh perspectives and a welcoming space to connect, reflect and exchange.

You will be given a detailed programme on the day.

This event forms part of the V&A Academy's celebration marking Nigeria's Independence.