The Ikeja Art Salon has come and gone, but its impact still lingers in the hearts of many who attended. Held at BA’s Place in Ikeja GRA on the 16th and 17th of August 2025, the show gathered artists, collectors, and everyday lovers of culture in a warm and lively atmosphere. Writes Ireho Aito

For two days, the venue turned into a hub of creativity. Paintings, sculptures, and mixed media works by over 30 artists filled the space, offering visitors a colourful journey into contemporary African art. From masters like Muraina Akeem, Adeola Balogun and Ato Arinze to younger talents such as Yvonne Nwoko and Mercy Idemudia, the exhibition was a blend of experience and fresh energy.

Beyond the artworks, the salon carried a deeper meaning. It reminded Lagos Mainland residents that art is not only for the Island. Conversations, laughter, and spontaneous exchanges between artists and visitors showed how art can truly live within a community.

Curator Chinonye Ejimofor’s vision of decentralising art found life here, while co-host Olafemi Olaniyan’s BA’s Place proved to be the perfect home for this experiment. Many left the event inspired, some with artworks in hand, and others simply with memories of beauty and connection.

The Ikeja Art Salon may have closed its doors for now, but it has opened a new chapter for the art scene on the Mainland and this is one that promises to keep growing.

Words/Ireho Aito/Don’t Keep Your Art in the Finger!/Photographs/Artzero/Ato Arinze