Yinka Olatunbosun
Yinka Olatunbosun
1499 Art Force may sound like a military mission name but it is the title of the group exhibition by a collective of artists drawn from the class of 1999 in Auchi School. Hosted by Thought Pyramid Art Centre, the show parades works of Auchi Art Royale made up of 14 accomplished contemporary Nigerian artists—painters and sculptors alike—who are all proud alumni of the renowned Auchi Polytechnic, Auchi, Edo State.
Their artistic journey, marked by unity and unflinching commitment to excellence, began twelve years ago with their debut exhibition at the National Museum, Lagos.
While reflecting on the show which kicked off on August 10, the Founder and Artistic Director, Thought Pyramid Art Centre, Olorogun Jeff Ajueshi remarked: “One year after their third showing, they now return with renewed purpose, vision, and under a new identity. It is a true honour that Thought Pyramid Art Centre, Lagos has been selected as the first gallery to host this newly rebranded collective.
“We are particularly proud to host “1499 Art Force” not only because each of the 14 exhibiting artists is a celebrated figure in today’s contemporary Nigerian art scene, but because of the values they embody—values we have also championed for the past 18 years: unity, creative brilliance, and cultural continuity.”
The title of the exhibition—1499 Art Force—is a brilliant blend of the group’s graduation year (1999) with the number of its members (14), symbolising both the strength of their bond and the collective creative force they wield. As viewers move through the exhibition, they will encounter not just masterful techniques and seasoned styles, but a palpable sense of class and timeless grace reminiscent of royalty—befitting for the collective.
This exhibition is a celebration of heritage, a reaffirmation of the power and beauty of collaboration, as well as a bold declaration of what is possible when artists grow together.
As a gallery that has long committed itself to supporting visionary talents and nurturing platforms that foster collective growth, Thought Pyramid opens its doors to inspire the next generation of artists—particularly undergraduates and recent graduates—to build lasting camaraderie, champion mutual progress, and reinforce the value of our academic institutions in nurturing artistic potential.
For the collective, the journey began during their academic years, where a deep sense of camaraderie and a shared passion for artistic excellence created the foundation for a lasting bond.
At first, it was difficult to stay connected after graduation in 1999 with the challenge of limited access to communication tools. Hence, the first group exhibition by the collective in 2003 titled “Kindred Spirit” was held at the National Museum, Lagos. Featuring Ola Balogun, Dudu Emmanuel and Titus Agbara, the exhibition was a resounding success.
In 2007, after four years of meticulous planning, a second exhibition “Free Style” was held at the Harmattan Gallery, Lagos. This exhibition included more members and further solidified the group’s presence in the Nigerian art scene. Participating artists then included Titus Agbara, Dudu Emmanuel, Imhonigie Imoesi, Joe Nsek, Franklyn Enebeli and Nosa Osadolor.
Three years later, in 2010, another exhibition titled “Intrinsic” was held at the African Artists Foundation AAF in Lagos. This show marked a significant moment for the group featuring artists such as Asuku Musa Momoh, Dudu Emmanuel, Imhonigie Imoesi, Klaranze Okhide, Titus Agbara, Joe Nsek, Franklin Enebeli and Ola Balogun.
In 2024, the collective celebrated its 25th anniversary with a major group exhibition titled “Constellation” at Iwalewa Gallery, Lagos. This landmark event featured all 14 members-officially marking the complete formation of the group.
In 2025, the group rebranded from Auchi Class ‘99 to Auchi Art Royale, a name that reflects both their heritage and aspirations. Members of the newly rebranded Auchi Art Royale are Asuku Musa Momoh, Ashikodi Okwudili, Dudu Emmanuel, Oisereme Pius, Franklyn Enebeli, Joe Nsek, John Anabui, Kingsley Bramah, Klaranze Okhide, Igba Henry, Imhonigie Imoesi, Nosa Osadolor, Ola Balogun and Titus Agbara.
The on-going show runs till August 25th.
Leave a comment