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Arts & Entertainment

Shyllon Museum, Top Law Firm Empower Nigerian Artists with Copyright Protection 

The Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art (YSMA), Pan-Atlantic University in collaboration with the  Guild of Professional Fine Artists of Nigeria (GFA) and Kenna Partners, a leading law firm renowned for its  expertise in art law, hosted a transformative workshop titled “Empowering Artists: Navigating Legal and  Contractual Issues in the Arts World” at the museum on January 17, 2025. 

This workshop, the first of its kind in Nigeria, placed a spotlight on copyright practices and intellectual property  rights, emphasising their pivotal role in protecting artists’ works, fostering innovation, and driving national  development. The facilitators, Okechukwu Ekweanya and Ifunanya Ikwueto, addressed the critical need for  awareness and enforcement of art-specific agreements, which, if overlooked, not only short-change artists but also  hinder the creative sector’s potential to significantly contribute to the economy. At the heart of the discussion was  the recognition of copyright as an invaluable asset that secures legal rights and income opportunities for creators,  regardless of who owns the physical creations.  

Museum Director, Dr. Jess Castellote, highlighted the museum’s commitment to empowering the creative sector: “At YSMA, we recognize that the creative economy is a driving force for innovation, cultural preservation, and  economic growth. By equipping artists with knowledge of their rights, particularly around copyright, we aim to  bridge a crucial gap that not only strengthens their careers but also supports national development.” 

In his brief address, Prof. Fabian Ajogwu, Senior Partner at Kenna Partners, commented on the role artists play in  immortalising history through their art and the need to protect their rights in these words: “As artists, you are the  brains that create value in the society; you are the finest lines that document our culture, and express who we are,  our history and journey as a people. In the business of art, it is vital to know your rights, to enable you make  informed decisions and set the terms clear in your dealings and professional practice.”  

President of GFA, George Edozie, emphasised the workshop’s importance, citing that “this initiative goes beyond  education. It is a call to action for artists to understand and assert their rights. By protecting their intellectual  property, they ensure their creativity is respected and fairly rewarded, which in turn elevates the entire creative  industry.” 

Through initiatives like this, YSMA solidifies its position as a catalyst for empowering Nigeria’s art community,  addressing systemic challenges, and harnessing the power of creativity to drive socio-economic development. Thirty  artists participated, and were equipped with the knowledge and tools to safeguard their intellectual property and  leverage it for sustainable careers.

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