Charles Ajunwa
The Uncle Sam Art Exhibition held recently at the Alexis Galleries in Victoria Island, Lagos, drew dignitaries from all walks of life to celebrate Nigerian art under the Tourists Club International’s organisation.
Curated by Dr. Osa Mbonu-Amadi, the event was to honour Grand Patron, Sam Amuka, who is the Publisher of Vanguard Newspapers, blending tourism promotion with cultural heritage.
Tourists Club International launched this annual USA Exhibition—standing for Uncle Sam Art Exhibition—to showcase Amuka’s private collection alongside works by artists like Prof. Dele Jegede, Fidelis Atumah, and Greg Onyeka.
Mbonu-Amadi, President of Tourists Club International and curator, emphasised its narrative depth: “While the exhibition dazzles with breathtaking colours and masterful techniques, its essence transcends mere aesthetics. It narrates a journey—from imperfection to ever-elevating creative standards.”
The display features about 35 pieces, including Vanguard’s first edition juxtaposed with its December 16 issue, symbolising perseverance, plus paintings by Kenny Adamson from Amuka’s holdings.
Mbonu-Amadi noted the international appeal: “The international scope is already represented in this maiden edition. We have two accomplished US-based artists participating.”
He praised emerging talents, saying, “The world is yet to see what I see in Greg Onyeka. One day, the world will see what I see in Greg Onyeka and Fidelis Atumah.
“This setup invites tourists to Alexis Galleries for an immersive taste of African creativity through December 20,” he added.
Amuka’s legacy as Grand Patron inspired Tourists Club International to make this exhibition a yearly draw, blending Victoria Island’s luxury with accessible African masterpieces.
Mbonu-Amadi enthused, “Christmas comes early at Alexis Galleries on account of the Uncle Sam Art Exhibition,” urging collectors and tourists to experience works evoking Nigeria’s artistic evolution. “Visitors can pair it with Lagos tours, turning art appreciation into a gateway for cultural exploration,” he noted.
Speakers highlighted Amuka’s legacy, positioning the exhibition as a must-visit for art tourists exploring Lagos’s vibrant scene.
Prominent attendees, including former Cross River Governor Donald Duke, Dr. Yemi Ogunbiyi, Arise TV’s Rufai Oseni, Dr. Mudiare Onobrakpeya, Jahman Anikulapo, Muyiwa Adetiba, and Jimi Disu, graced the event, reinforcing Tourists Club International’s role in cultural tourism.
Ogunbiyi lauded Amuka as “a committed collector of artworks,” underscoring his influence in media and art patronage. The presence of these dignitaries at the exhibition elevated it as a beacon for art-loving visitors to Lagos.
On Thursday, December 18, the Uncle Sam Art Exhibition at Alexis Galleries drew a fresh surge of visitors. Ecobank Plc, led by its Corporate Affairs Head, Austen Osokpor, the Kayvee Microfinance Bank team, Evelyn Onyeibe, the Group Advertising Manager of Sun Newspapers, and many others gathered to experience firsthand what they’ve seen and heard buzzing across media reports since the exhibition opened on Tuesday, December 16.
Onyeibe raved, “In terms of aesthetic quality, concept, theme, and message, the Uncle Sam Art Exhibition has surpassed every other show in Lagos this year.”
Onyeibe wasn’t alone in this assessment of the show; other visitors who came in to see the paintings and the curated only surviving copy of First Published edition of Vanguard Newspaper have similar opinion.
The USA Art Exhibition will run till December 20, 2025. According to the Curator, Christmas has since begun at Alexis Galleries through Uncle Sam Art Exhibition.
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