Mr Miracle Uchenna of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, has emerged the overall winner of the maiden edition of Chief Okwy Ogbuefi Visual Art Competition .and went home with a cheque of four hundred thousand naira.
Mr Godspower Ubala also of the same school emerged first runner up with a cheque of two hundred and fifty thousand naira, while Mr Daniel Odukwu of Federal Polytechnic, Oko emerged second runner with a cheque for one hundred and fifty thousand naira.
The grand finale of the competition titled, “The Way Out”, took place at Trig-Premium Hotels and Galleries, Nibo in Awka South Local Government Area with students, artists of various genres and lovers of arts in attendance as the event had different art works displayed for the viewing pleasure of attendees.
In his speech, the Benefactor, Chief Ogbuefi who majored in painting in the higher institution, explained that the arts exhibition which will become an annual programme was designed to motivate and encourage upcoming artists.
Chief Ogbuefi who is also the proprietor of Trig-Premium Hotels and Galleries was represented by Sir Tony Otigba, a sculptor, who described arts as a good profession which needs full concentration and urged the young artists to always visit museums, art galleries, and exhibitions to enhance their performance.
In his speech, the Chairman, Society of Nigerian Artists, Anambra state Chapter, Comrade Moses Njoku explained that the exhibition is an art competition designed to motivate and encourage Fine and Applied Arts students of tertiary institutions in Anambra state.
Disclosing the criteria for the competition, Comrade Njoku pointed out that the organizers brought up a theme which the students worked towards and their ability to capture the theme is what the jury used to judge and assess their works.
The Chairman of Jury and Rector Renaissance Polytechnic Mbaukwu, Professor Cliff Nwanna said that the exhibition and competition was well curated and juried and noted that the important thing about competition is not only those who go home with prizes but the experience gathered which will help one to improve in areas he or she is lacking and advised the artists not to shy away from competitions.
The Chairman on the occasion, Dr. Ogoo Okoye and a foremost member of the Society of Nigeria Artists, Sir Chuka Nnabuife in their comments, recalled their journey into the world of arts, its beauty, value and lucrativeness but expressed concern on why arts is not given its rightful position in Nigerian society and urged the young artists to let people see the art in them.
The overall winner, Mr Uchenna and the Director Awka Museum Foundation, Barrister Arthur Harris-Eze appreciated God for making the event possible as well as Chief Ogbuefi who through the sponsorship of the programme is ensuring that arts is given due recognition.
Presentation of certificates and cash prizes to the winners and participants brought the competition to a conclusion.
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