About Us.

The Society of Nigerian Artists (SNA) is the professional body for all practicing visual artists in Nigeria. In 1963, artists emerging from various schools and colleges of art, as well as members of the Zaria Art Society held a first meeting, where the Society’s present name was adopted. Chief Aina Onabolu, Prof. Ben Enwonwu, Prof. Charles P. Argent who is largely credited with the development of Zaria’s Fine Arts department, were elected as the first patrons. In January 1964, the Society was established with its headquarters in Lagos and an exhibition was held that featured 84 works by 12 of the founding members. Subsequent exhibitions featured more artists and work drawn from broad categories including sculpture, painting, graphics, photography, print, drawing, ceramics and textile design. At inception, the Society allowed membership to only formally trained artists. Presently, membership has expanded to include art students in tertiary institutions, self-taught and Nigerian artists in Diaspora. The Society of Nigeria Artists (SNA) encourages the development of the visual arts in Nigeria and fosters their understanding through dedicated practice and scholarly engagement. The Society of Nigerian Artists (SNA) engenders the highest standards of scholarship, creativity, criticism and teaching in the visual arts in Nigeria to encourage intellectual advancement and the development of skills that enrich visual arts professionals and their contribution to national development. To achieve this vision, the Society will:

Mission

The mission of the Society of Nigerian Artists is to:

Promote the appreciation, understanding, and practice of visual arts in Nigeria. Support and advocate for the rights, welfare, and professional development of Nigerian artists. Preserve and promote Nigeria's rich artistic heritage both locally and internationally.

Vision

The vision of the Society of Nigerian Artists is to:

1. Represent the diverse community of visual artists in Nigeria and advocate for the visual arts in Nigeria

2. Encourage dialogue among members and sustain permanent contacts between them;

3. Facilitate communication by keeping abreast of advances in technology through innovative and improved technology.

4. Improve the socio- economic welfare of Nigerian artists, while protecting their material and moral rights.

5. Assist professional growth by addressing career development and workforce issues.

6. Strengthen organizational leadership and structures, increase membership and financial support.

The Society of Nigeria Artists (SNA) encourages the development of the visual arts in Nigeria and fosters their understanding through dedicated practice and scholarly engagement.

Objectives

The objectives of the Society of Nigerian Artists include:

Organizing exhibitions, workshops, and seminars to showcase Nigerian art and foster public engagement. Providing a platform for artists to collaborate, share ideas, and develop professionally through continuous education and training programs. Advocating for policies that improve working conditions for artists, secure funding for the arts, and promote cultural institutions. Expanding participation in international exhibitions and art fairs to promote Nigerian artists globally. Addressing challenges such as limited funding and infrastructure by building stronger partnerships with local and international organizations. Adapting to contemporary art trends by integrating new media, technology, and modern artistic practices.

Zones:

There are four zones namely West, East, Middle Belt and North, into which the Chapters are grouped: West Delta, Edo, Lagos, Ogun, Ondo and Oyo state chapters East Abia, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Cross-River, Bayelsa, Ebonyi, Enugu, Imo and Rivers state chapters Middle Belt Adamawa, Benue, FCT, Kogi, Kwara, Nassarawa, Niger, Plateau, Taraba and Abuja state chapters North Bauchi, Borno, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Gombe, Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto, Yobe and Zamfara state chapters