Nike Art Gallery is in Lekki Phase I, Lagos. Textile artist and designer Nike Davies-Okundaye founded it in 2009, and it holds thousands of traditional and contemporary Nigerian works, including paintings, sculptures, textiles and beadwork. Admission is free. Adire, batik and indigo fabrics are among the gallery's specialities, and the staff can explain the stories behind the pieces. Allow time for the upper floors, and for the traditional drinks served in the annex behind the gallery.
Founder and origins
Nike Davies-Okundaye, a textile artist and designer, founded the gallery in 2009. Her aim was to lift up a craft scene in Lagos that was often overlooked, and to bring traditional skills into view beside contemporary work. The gallery carries her name.
The gallery is part of a wider project, the Nike Art Center, which runs workshops in textile making, painting and sculpting, and also in dancing and drumming. Students learn beadwork, tie and dye, and other crafts. The same work continues in galleries in Abuja, Osun and Kogi, so the mission reaches beyond Lagos.
What the collection holds
The collection covers traditional and contemporary Nigerian art, and the traditional side is strong. Indigo dyeing, adire, batik, weaving and quilting appear alongside stone sculptures and beadwork. Paintings, digital art and photographs sit with the textiles and carvings, and some of the photographs show ordinary daily life in a plain, direct way.
Thousands of works are on display across the building. One of the most notable pieces was made by the founder herself, who worked on it for 365 days, three hours each day. It is a useful example of the patience the gallery's craft depends on.
Moving through the building
The walls are white, and the lighting picks out the colour of each piece. The building has several floors, and each one has its own display, so the visit moves from one kind of work to another as you climb.
Staff can talk about the artists and the stories behind the pieces, so ask when something catches your eye. The quiet rooms suit slow looking, and a visit that starts early leaves time to return to a favourite room.
Shop, annex and workshops
The gift shop at the end of the visit sells souvenirs, clothing, chocolates and local products, along with African print dresses and jewellery. Some artworks are also for sale, bought directly from local artists.
Behind the gallery, the annex serves traditional drinks: hibiscus juice, baobab juice, palm wine and tiger nut milk. The site also has a restaurant. Workshops at the centre let you learn a craft in person, from textile making to painting.
Practical details
Parking is free, both in the car park and on the street. The entrance, restroom and parking lot are wheelchair accessible. The gallery is suitable for children, and it also hosts live performances and private events.
FAQ
Is there an entry fee?
No. Admission is free, and the parking lot is free as well.
How long do you need at Nike Art Gallery?
Allow two to three hours to see the floors at a comfortable pace. Arriving early gives you more time with the art.
Can you take photos inside?
Taking pictures for personal use is not allowed inside the gallery. Check with staff at the desk before you take any.
Is the gallery wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The entrance, the restroom and the parking lot are all wheelchair accessible.
