12 Best Art Galleries in Lagos

Hello there! Do you love paintings, sculptures, or colourful artwork? Do you dream of walking into a room full of beautiful and creative things? Lagos, a lively city in Nigeria, is full of amazing art galleries. These are special places where artists show their work, and anyone can visit to enjoy the beauty of art. Let’s see some of the most exciting art galleries in Lagos!

1. Nike Art Gallery

What it’s like:
Nike Art Gallery is one of the biggest art galleries in Africa. Imagine a tall white building with more than four floors full of colourful paintings, sculptures, and cloth designs. You’ll also find lots of beads, carvings, and traditional Nigerian fabrics here. It’s a great place to learn about Nigerian culture.

Fun Fact: The gallery was started by a kind and talented woman named Nike Davies-Okundaye. She loves teaching people about art.

Why visit: You can meet artists working on their creations and even learn how to make art!

2. Nomadic Art

What it’s like:
This gallery is like an adventure! The art here tells stories of travel and movement, showing how people live and connect around the world.

Fun Fact: The word nomadic means moving from one place to another, and that’s what this gallery’s art is all about.

Why visit: It’s a perfect place to see art from different parts of Nigeria and beyond.

3. Ogirikan Art Gallery

What it’s like:
Ogirikan Art Gallery is small but very special. It’s known for showing cool and creative artwork made by young Nigerian artists.

Fun Fact: The name “Ogirikan” means something precious.

Why visit: This gallery is for you if you like seeing fresh ideas and unique styles.

4. O’da Art Gallery

What it’s like:
This is a cosy and welcoming space where you’ll find a mix of modern and traditional Nigerian art. They often host art exhibitions, which are like mini art shows.

Fun Fact: “O’da” means “It is good” in Yoruba.

Why visit: The art here will make you think and feel inspired.

5. Rele Gallery

What it’s like:
Rele Gallery is colourful, modern, and full of energy. It’s a place where art meets fun! You’ll see paintings, photos, and sculptures that make you go “Wow!”

Fun Fact: Rele Gallery also helps new artists become famous by showing their work to the world.

Why visit: If you’re curious about what’s happening in the art world today, this gallery is a must-see.

6. African Artists Foundation (AAF)

What it’s like:
AAF is not just a gallery; it’s also a place where artists learn and grow. They have programs to help artists get better at what they do.

Fun Fact: AAF loves photography and even organizes photo competitions!

Why visit: If you love taking pictures or looking at amazing photos, this is the spot for you.

7. Thought Pyramid Art Centre

What it’s like:
This gallery is like a treasure box filled with incredible art pieces. The name “Thought Pyramid” means it’s a place where ideas and creativity come together.

Fun Fact: They believe art can solve problems and make the world better.

Why visit: You’ll learn how art can tell important stories and bring people together.

8. Ko Art Space

What it’s like:
Ko Art Space is small and modern, filled with bold and colourful art. It’s a favourite place for young artists to share their creativity.

Fun Fact: The gallery name “Ko” means “create” in Yoruba.

Why visit: It’s great for seeing fresh and exciting artwork.

9. Art Twenty One

What it’s like:
This gallery is inside Eko Hotel, one of the most famous hotels in Lagos. Art Twenty One is a large, bright space filled with amazing contemporary art.

Fun Fact: This gallery brings in artists from all over the world.

Why visit: You’ll see art from Nigeria and other countries in one place.

10. Affinity Gallery

What it’s like:
Affinity Gallery celebrates African art and culture. Its beautiful artworks tell stories about Africa’s rich history.

Fun Fact: “Affinity” means a strong connection, and this gallery wants people to feel connected to African art.

Why visit: It’s a fantastic spot to learn about Africa through art.

11. Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art (YSMA)

What it’s like:
YSMA is more than a gallery; it’s also a museum! It has over 1,000 artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and traditional Nigerian artifacts.

Fun Fact: It’s located inside Pan-Atlantic University, and students often visit to learn about art.

Why visit: You’ll discover art from the past and present all in one place.

12. Kokopelli Africa

What it’s like:
Kokopelli Africa is like a playground for art lovers. The gallery focuses on creative designs and artworks that celebrate African traditions.

Fun Fact: The name “Kokopelli” is inspired by a symbol of joy and creativity.

Why visit: It’s perfect for seeing how art and culture mix in exciting ways.

13. Omenka Gallery

What it’s like:
Omenka Gallery is one of Lagos’s top art galleries. It features art that blends traditional and modern African styles.

Fun Fact: The gallery also has a magazine about art and culture.

Why visit: It’s a great place to see how African artists are making their mark on the world.

14. Tiwani Contemporary

What it’s like:
Tiwani Contemporary is a gallery that connects African artists with the world. You’ll find art that’s both creative and meaningful here.

Fun Fact: Tiwani Contemporary also has a gallery in London!

Why visit: It’s a fantastic place to see art that tells powerful stories about Africa.

Why Visit Art Galleries?

Visiting art galleries is fun and exciting. You’ll see beautiful things, learn about different cultures, and even get inspired to make your own art. Lagos has so many galleries to choose from, so why not plan a visit today?

Which of these galleries do you want to visit first? Let your adventure into the world of art begin.