Entertainment

Nigeria, Namibia’s young artists called to ‘Give art life’

Published

8 years ago

February 13, 2018

The L’Atelier art competition is one of the longest-running and most prestigious visual arts competitions on the African continent. It was established in South Africa 33 years ago, but in recent years has been expanded to include a number of other African countries in order to reach more young artists and further the unparalleled opportunities it affords those who participate in the competition. For the first time in its history, this now includes the countries of Nigeria and Namibia.

This brings to 12 the number of African countries participating in the competition, which is jointly sponsored by Barclays Africa and the South African National Association for the Visual Arts (SANAVA). The other participating countries include South Africa, Botswana, Ghana, Zambia, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Mauritius, Seychelles and Mozambique.

L’Atelier rewards young visual artists with unparalleled industry opportunities to develop their talents abroad. As such, the competition is open to all professional and self-taught emerging artists aged 21 to 35 who are permanent residents of, and reside in, these qualifying countries.

For thousands of artists across Africa whose creativity is their livelihood, art gives life. Now, L’Atelier is asking these artists to ‘Give art life’ as it calls for entries into this year’s competition.

This inspiring theme of the 2018 competition reflects the idea that the highly acclaimed L’Atelier gives African contemporary art, and the fresh young talent behind it, a platform to thrive. This is evident in the once-in-a-lifetime opportunities presented through the competition.

For the main winners, this includes a six-month art residency at the Cité internationale des arts in Paris, and a cash prize of R330 000.

Similarly, the first Merit Award prize comprises a three-month art residency at the Bag Factory in South Africa; the second Merit Award, a two-month art residency at the Sylt Foundation, on the island of Sylt in Germany, and the third Merit Award, a one-month art residency with the Ampersand Foundation in New York, USA.

All Top 10 finalists in the competition are also placed on a two-day art professionalism course to assist them in managing their careers – a vital aspect in helping young artists turn their talent into profitable businesses.

Dr. Paul Bayliss, Absa Art and Museum Curator, says L’Atelier organisers and the entire adjudication panel are looking forward to seeing the works of artists from Namibia and Nigeria among this year’s entries.

“We are very excited to welcome Namibian and Nigerian artists on board, and to see them join so many other artists from across the African continent in taking up the opportunities presented to them through this competition. L’Atelier has played a significant role in the careers of many influential visual artists from Africa, particularly the winners, who have benefited from the exposure afforded to them through the residencies.”

“Since extending the competition to across the African continent, the response from young, up-and-coming artists has been incredible. This bears testament to the fact that emerging artists realise the immense value L’Atelier adds to their careers. It has been very encouraging to see Africa’s young artists making the most of the opportunities that are being created to support and help grow their careers. It’s important not only that artists take advantage of these opportunities, but that they put their best works forward when doing it,” says Bayliss.

To enter the 2018 competition, artists simply need to visit the L’Atelier website at www.LAtelierCompetition.com click on the “enter L’Atelier 2018” button, and complete the required information. Registration opens on 1 February 2018, entries can be uploaded from 1 March 2018, and entries close on 27 April 2018.

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Entertainment

Sean Dampte causes stir after calling on Nigerian Radios, TVs to drop South African content, drags lazy youths

Published

4 days ago

July 10, 2026

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Afrobeats singer Sean Dampte has stirred fresh conversations online after calling on Nigerian media platforms to temporarily suspend the promotion of South African entertainment content, while also delivering a blunt message to young Nigerians about the importance of hard work.

The singer made the remarks during a recent radio interview, where he discussed the need for Nigeria to place greater value on its entertainment industry and cultural influence across Africa.

Speaking passionately, Sean Dampte argued that Nigerian radio stations, television networks, DJs, presenters and other media stakeholders should prioritise local content over South African productions, insisting that Nigeria has contributed immensely to the growth of African entertainment and deserves greater respect in return.

According to the “Ajinomoto” crooner, Nigerian media should leverage its influence to protect the country’s creative industry and ensure Nigerian artistes receive the recognition and support they deserve.

While he did not suggest that the suspension should be permanent, his comments have generated mixed reactions among fans and industry observers. Some have applauded his stance, describing it as a bold call to protect Nigerian interests and promote homegrown talent. Others, however, argue that entertainment should remain a bridge for cultural exchange rather than become entangled in political or diplomatic disagreements.

Beyond the conversation on media and cultural identity, Sean Dampte also addressed Nigerian youths, stressing the importance of diligence and personal responsibility in the face of the country’s economic realities.

Delivering what has since become one of the interview’s most talked-about moments, the singer declared:

“If you no hustle, na Sapa be the penalty.”

The statement quickly resonated across social media, with many users adopting it as a catchy slogan that reflects the everyday struggles faced by many young Nigerians.

Sean Dampte’s comments have continued to spark debate over whether Nigerian media should adopt stronger measures to protect local content or maintain an open approach that promotes entertainment across the African continent.

As discussions continue online, his remarks have once again placed the intersection of music, culture and national identity at the centre of public conversation, proving that the singer is unafraid to voice opinions capable of igniting widespread debate.

Entertainment

Nigeria must be a place where children can dream without fear — Sean Dampte

Published

1 month ago

June 6, 2026

Gbenga Rotimi

Nigerian singer and humanitarian Sean Dampte has expressed deep concern over reports of mass abductions and growing insecurity across communities in South-West Nigeria, calling for urgent action to protect lives and restore public confidence.

In a heartfelt statement, Dampte lamented the fear and uncertainty facing families, students, and educators in affected communities. He stressed that no child should leave home for school only to become the subject of desperate prayers before returning safely, and that no teacher should have to work under the constant threat of abduction.

Describing the situation as a national concern that transcends politics, ethnicity, religion, and social media debates, the entertainer emphasised that real lives and families are being affected by the crisis.

“My heart is heavy over the reports of mass abductions and the fear spreading across communities in South-West Nigeria,” he said, adding that the pain experienced by victims and their loved ones should never be ignored or normalised.

Sean Dampte expressed solidarity with affected families and communities living in fear, while also joining other Nigerians in demanding immediate and decisive action from authorities. He urged relevant security agencies and government institutions to strengthen the protection of schools, secure vulnerable communities, and ensure the safe return of all abducted persons.

The singer concluded by reiterating his vision for a safer nation, stating that “Nigeria must be a place where children can dream without fear.”

Entertainment

Adekunle Gold, Simi welcome twins

Published

6 months ago

January 8, 2026

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Popular Nigerian singer, Adekunle Kosoko, better known as Adekunle Gold, and his wife, Simisola Kosoko, also known as Simi, have welcomed a set of twin babies.

The singer announced the good news via his Snapchat story on Wednesday.

“Asked God for another child and He blessed me double,” Simi wrote.

Although the gender of the babies has not been disclosed, the announcement has since attracted congratulatory messages from fans, colleagues and well-wishers across the entertainment industry.

The development comes months after Simi had hinted at her pregnancy. In December, she shared a video on Instagram, captioned, “From my baby, for my babies,” with the clip showing her baby bump.

The arrival of the twins also comes weeks after Simi featured in a snippet from Adekunle Gold’s recently released music video titled My Love Is the Same.

Adekunle Gold and Simi got married in 2019 after years of friendship and musical collaboration. Both artistes were formerly signed to X3M Music early in their careers and have since remained one of Nigeria’s most celebrated celebrity couples.

The couple welcomed their first child, Adejare Kosoko, fondly called Deja, in May 2020.