In the Hands of Collins Asiegbu, Discarded Objects are Given a Second Life

(Collins Asiegbu in his studio)

In a modest studio filled with discarded machine parts, worn-out vehicle components, twisted wires and forgotten metal fragments, Nigerian sculptor Collins Asiegbu sees possibilities where others see waste.

Rome International Art Fair 2026 Set to Open in...

The 18th edition of the Rome International Art Fair opens on July 8, 2026, bringing contemporary artists from around the world to one of the Italian capital's most historic cultural venues. Organised by ITSLIQUID Group, the exhibition runs until July 19 at the ITSLIQUID Art Space, located within the renowned Palazzo Velli in Rome’s vibrant Trastevere district.

Opening at 6:00 p.m. on July 8, the fair will explore two dual themes: Mixing Identities and Future Landscapes. Through a diverse selection of painting, photography, sculpture, installation, and digital media, participating artists will examine the evolving relationship between human identity, society, and our changing environments.

By housing contemporary artistic practices within a 15th-century palace, the event creates a striking dialogue with Rome’s rich architectural heritage. According to the organisers, the exhibition aims to foster international artistic exchange while prompting audiences to reflect on how identities are shaped in an increasingly interconnected world. As a highlight of Europe's summer cultural calendar, the fair is expected to attract collectors, curators, and art enthusiasts from across the globe.

Photo Credit: Image courtesy of ITSLIQUID Group / Rome International Art Fair 2026

VICAN Announces 2026 Djakou Kassi Annual Lecture Series

The Visions in Clay Artists Network (VICAN) has announced the second edition of the Djakou Kassi Annual Lecture Series, scheduled to be held virtually on June 30, 2026. The event will feature renowned ceramic artist and educator Leslie Green Guilbault as the guest speaker.

Titled "Two Practices, One Studio: Managing a Creative and Functional Body of Work Without Losing Your Voice," the lecture will explore the challenges and opportunities artists face in balancing multiple creative pursuits while maintaining a distinct artistic identity.

Organisers say the annual lecture series is designed to provide professional development opportunities for artists, ceramists, students, and cultural practitioners. Participants will gain insights into studio management, creative sustainability, and strategies for navigating both artistic and commercial aspects of contemporary practice.

The online event will take place via Zoom at 8:00 p.m. West African Time, making it accessible to audiences across Africa and beyond. Leslie Green Guilbault, known for her contributions to contemporary ceramics, is expected to share experiences from her practice and offer guidance for emerging and established artists alike.

The lecture forms part of VICAN’s ongoing efforts to strengthen dialogue, knowledge exchange, and professional growth within the ceramics community. Attendance is open to interested participants through the designated Zoom platform.

SCAN Opens Call for Entries for 4th National Biennial Sculpture Exhibition

The Sculptors’ Association of Nigeria (SCAN) has officially announced a call for entries for its 4th National Biennial Sculpture Exhibition, inviting artists nationwide to submit works for the highly anticipated event, scheduled for October 2026 at the National Museum, Onikan, Lagos.

The exhibition, themed Traversing Forms, seeks to showcase innovative approaches to sculpture and contemporary artistic expression. Organisers say the biennial has become one of Nigeria’s leading platforms for celebrating excellence in sculptural practice while fostering dialogue among artists, collectors, scholars, and the public.

Professional sculptors, young graduates, and non-members are encouraged to participate by submitting images of their works before the August 29, 2026, deadline. Selected entries will be displayed alongside works from some of the nation’s most accomplished sculptors. 

According to SCAN, the exhibition aims to highlight the evolving language of sculpture and the diverse ways artists engage with form, material, and space. The event is expected to attract significant attention from the arts community and further strengthen Nigeria’s growing reputation as a hub for contemporary sculpture in Africa.

African LGBTQ+ Artists Exhibition at the Smithsonian

A groundbreaking exhibition celebrating the creativity, identity, and resilience of African LGBTQ+ artists is drawing international attention at the Smithsonian's National Museum of African Art. Titled Here: Pride and Belonging in African Art, the exhibition is the museum's first major showcase dedicated to queer African artistic expression and is currently on view through August 23, 2026.