ACETNEWS
An exhibition celebrating the life and legacy of Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti opened today Monday, October 26, at the Institute of Contemporary African Art and Film (ICAAF) in Ilorin, Kwara State.
Titled Fela: A Retrospective, the exhibition will run until December 31, with free admission for members of the public.
The exhibition is curated and produced by June Creative Art Advisory (JCAA) as part of efforts to promote cultural heritage and the creative economy in Kwara State.
It will feature photographs, archival materials, music, films and historical objects documenting Fela’s contributions to Afrobeat, art and social thought.
A major focus of the exhibition is Fela’s performance at the Niger Hotel in Ilorin on August 30, 1971, highlighting his historical connection with the city.
Fela, who died in 1997, remains an influential figure in Nigerian music and is widely recognised for developing Afrobeat, a genre that combines African rhythms with jazz, funk and other musical influences.
His music also addressed political corruption, social injustice and human rights, making his work significant beyond the entertainment industry.
According to a statement issued by Kwara State Commissioner for Communications, Bolanle Olukoju, the exhibition will showcase aspects of Fela’s contribution to music, art and social thought.
The programme will include guided tours designed to help visitors understand the materials on display and Fela’s influence on Nigerian culture.
School visits are also planned to introduce young people to his music, history and creative legacy.
Workshops will form part of the activities, exposing participants to creative disciplines and the role of art in cultural expression.
The initiative is expected to encourage emerging creatives to explore music, film, visual art and design as means of expression and cultural preservation.
The exhibition aligns with the Kwara State Government’s efforts to use its cultural heritage, creative talent and tourism opportunities to support development.
By bringing together archival materials and artistic presentations, Fela: A Retrospective offers visitors an opportunity to revisit the life and work of a musician whose influence continues to shape African music and social commentary.
Source: Voice of Nigeria
