The recently concluded Business of Photography conference, held in collaboration with the Africa Creative Market with theme Culture Exchange Extended was an enlighten and thought provoking session from every panel session. All of the panel discussions, starting with Mr. Obi Asika’s opening remarks, were educational and covered topics such as the potential of Nigerian culture and the number of untold stories and cultures that have already disappeared or will soon disappear if they are not properly told and presented to a global audience so that everyone can witness the rich appreciation of culture found in the Nigerian cultural system.
Obi Asika emphasised a powerful message: If given the opportunity, Nigeria could lead the way in areas like technology, innovation, creativity, art, music, animation, and the broader digital landscape. He argued that the country doesn’t need to rely on narratives from places like the United States. Instead, the richness of local stories holds far greater significance and potential. Asika’s statement underscores the importance of harnessing Nigeria’s vast cultural and creative resources to shape its own identity on the global stage. By focusing on local narratives, Nigeria can not only preserve its cultural heritage but also drive innovation and economic growth in the creative sector. The message is a call for the country to embrace and invest in its homegrown talents, recognising the immense value that lies within its own borders rather than looking outward for inspiration.
The panel discussion topic titled “The Evolution of Female Representation in Art” at the recently finished conference truly resonated with me. Kelechi Amadi Obi’s comment, which summarizes his artistic philosophy in general terms as follows:
“As an artist, my role is to express my vision, a personal narrative shaped by the world around me. The reaction to my work, however, reflects more about the viewer’s experiences and perspectives than about my intentions. In the evolution of female representation, this dynamic reveals how society’s views on gender and femininity are constantly evolving, shaped by both the artist’s message and the viewer’s interpretation.”
This version ties into the broader topic of female representation in art, offering a space for dialogue between the artist’s intentions and the viewer’s cultural lens.
In conclusion The Business of Photography Conference in collaboration Africa Creative Market highlighted several key takeaways from thought provoking conversations, networking opportunities, enhancing business skills , culture representation and culture appreciation amongst others. Overall, the conference served as a platform for knowledge sharing, inspiration, and strategic planning for the future of photography in Africa.
