Art, Legacy, and the Power of Community | Ato Arinze | CUO S3E5
Published 11 July 2025 in Podcast
Artfundi Editorial
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Art, Legacy, and the Power of Community | Ato Arinze | S3E5
Key
Insights:
- A masterpiece goes beyond skill, capturing deep historical and cultural meaning.
- Art as visual journalism involves in-depth exploration of a society’s history and stories.
- Mentorship and personal intellectual development are key for young artists.
- Documentation plays a critical role in creating lasting artistic legacies.
- A genuine commitment to supporting artistic communities helps achieve lasting cultural influence.
Renowned Nigerian artist Ato Arinze, who has worked as a professional artist since 1993, shares thoughtful insights on creating art, setting up a legacy, and the value of mentorship in today's African art community.
A pivotal point raised by Arinze is what constitutes a "masterpiece." To him, a masterpiece is more than just technical brilliance; it carries significant cultural and historical meaning, inspiring ongoing conversations long after the artist has passed. Arinze stresses that his method for crafting lasting artwork includes extensive research into historical events, cultural stories, and everyday life in Nigerian society, allowing his work to function as visual storytelling.
Arinze highlights the significant impact of the Natural Synthesis movement started by the Zaria Art Society. He explains that this approach merges traditional cultural elements with contemporary methods, influencing his artistic practice and motivating collective movements such as Art Zero, which he co-founded in 2002. He expresses regret that today's art scene lacks the intellectual depth and community collaboration seen during the era of the Zaria artists, due to commercial pressures and fragmented artistic networks.
The conversation also touches on Arinze’s respect for traditional methods and materials, particularly through his practice of pottery. He encourages contemporary artists to keep openness and learn from traditional artisans whose methods are often more eco-friendlier and more practical. Arinze believes blending these traditional practices with contemporary art enhances the authenticity and richness of the artistic experience.
As an active mentor, Arinze strongly recommends that young artists study the works of past master artists, invest in their intellectual growth, and diligently document their creative processes. He considers consistent documentation, whether through sketchbooks, personal reflections, or preserved artworks, essential for creating an enduring artistic legacy.
Reflecting on his own legacy, Arinze expresses a deep commitment to creating impactful artwork and nurturing supportive artistic communities. His vision of a lasting impact is symbolically captured by his dream of mentoring under a tree in a peaceful Nigerian village - a powerful image of cultural connection and ongoing legacy.
Arinze’s perspective offers valuable lessons for artists, curators, and cultural organisations dedicated to fostering meaningful art practices that respect cultural heritage and embrace contemporary creativity.
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