iBAND Magazine celebrates the upcoming exhibition of the Auchi Art Royale Class of ’99, one remarkable reunion of 14 artists whose creative journeys, friendship and shared artistic foundation have continued to inspire the Nigerian art landscape.

More than two decades after their paths crossed at Federal Polytechnic School of Art and Design, Auchi, these artists are coming together once again to showcase their works in an exhibition that celebrates legacy, creativity and the enduring bond that has connected them through years of artistic growth and individual achievements. The exhibition opens on 12 July 2026 at Tim & Carol Gallery of Art, 7A Oba Dosunmu Street, GRA, Ikeja, Lagos, with the opening at 2pm.

Words Ireho Aito | Don’t Keep Your Art in the Finger!

Twenty-seven years after their foundation was built within the studios and classrooms of Auchi Polytechnic’s School of Art and Design, the artists are coming together again for a new exhibition titled “1499 Art Force.”

The exhibition, scheduled to open on 12 July 2026 at Tim & Carol Gallery of Art, GRA Ikeja, Lagos, is more than a gathering of works. It is a celebration of a bond that has survived time, distance and the changing seasons of the art world.

Over the years, the group has staged landmark exhibitions, including “Kindred Spirit,” “Free Style,” “Intrinsic,” and “Constellation,” each marking different stages of their artistic evolution. Their reunion exhibitions have become reminders that artistic journeys are not only built on talent, but also on community and shared vision.

The story of the Class of ’99 is one of artistic brotherhood. What began as young artists discovering their voices in Auchi has grown into a collective of accomplished creatives whose works have continued to explore identity, culture, humanity, memory and the environment.

Bringing together Ashikodi Okwudili, Braimoh Kingsley, Dudu Emmanuel, Enebeli Franklyn, Henry Igba, Imhonigie Imoesi, Joe Nsek, John Anabui, Klaranze Okhide, Musa Asuku, Nosakhare Osadolor, Ola Balogun, Oisereme Pius and Titus Agbara, “1499 Art Force” reflects the strength of individual journeys coming together as one powerful artistic statement.

Through the years, iBAND Magazine’s platform has followed the creative paths of these artists, documenting their exhibitions, conversations, philosophies and the stories behind their works. From painting to sculpture and other visual expressions, each artist represents a different voice within the larger Auchi narrative.

The works of Henry Igba reflect a deep connection with storytelling, colour and human experiences, while Dudu Emmanuel and Titus Agbara continues to transform memories, culture and everyday symbols into powerful artistic conversations.

The sculptural strength and creative exploration of artists like Ashikodi Okwudili, Oisereme Pius and show the enduring influence of Auchi’s tradition of craftsmanship, innovation and discipline.

Artists including John Anabui, Imhonigie Imoesi and Musa Asuku continue to engage with ideas around nature, society, identity and artistic responsibility, while Ola Balogun, Joe Nsek, Enebeli Franklyn, Klaranze Okhide, Nosakhare Osadolor and Braimoh Kingsley bring their own experiences, perspectives and evolving artistic languages into this collective celebration.

Together, they represent a generation that has refused to let time erase the connections formed in their early artistic years. Their journey is a reminder that art is not only about individual achievement; it is also about community, shared history and the ability to grow together.

The movement “1499 Art Force” captures the spirit of this reunion 14 artists, connected by the year 1999, united by a shared foundation and strengthened by decades of creative exploration.

iBAND Magazine, Celebrating Visual Arts from the Original.
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