Now You See Me, Now You Don't
In a world where art and technology are increasingly intertwined, Atsur, hosted an exhibition curated by OSENGWA in partnership with Afrilabs during the Artech Lagos Event that illuminated the limitless possibilities of creative innovation. At the intersection of traditional artistry and cutting-edge technology, this event transcended expectations, inviting attendees to embark on an immersive journey into a new realm of artistic expression.
A Canvas of Augmented Reality
The focal point of this exhibition was the fusion of art with augmented reality (AR). Traditional art forms were reimagined and brought to life through the innovative use of AR technology. Attendees had the opportunity to witness digital creations take on a life of their own, unfolding before their eyes as they viewed them through compatible smartphones or tablets.
These digital artworks, once static on canvas or paper, gained newfound dynamism pushing the boundaries of conventional art and offering an experience that was both visually captivating and emotionally evocative. It was a testament to the power of technology to enhance and elevate the world of art.
Wearable Art: The Atsur Pioneer Series
Complementing the AR-enhanced artworks was the Atsur Pioneer series — a groundbreaking collaboration between two visionary artists, Terna Iwar and Peace Olatunji. This series introduced wearable art pieces in the form of T-shirts brought to life through augmented reality. It was an inspiring convergence of fashion, art, and technology that left a lasting impression on all who encountered it.
Unlocking Creative Opportunities in Africa
During the panel discussions held at the event, the transformative potential of technology in the African art scene was a central theme. Here are some key takeaways:
Accessibility: Technology, particularly AR, makes art more accessible, breaking down geographical barriers and connecting a global audience to African creativity.
Cultural Preservation: Technology plays a pivotal role in preserving African cultural heritage. It allows for the documentation, Provenance tracking and archiving of traditional practices, stories, and customs.
Monetization through NFTs: The emergence of blockchain technology and non-fungible tokens (NFTs) presents a novel opportunity for African artists to monetize their work and overcome financial challenges.
Education and Skill Development: Technology integrated into art education empowers emerging talents, fostering a new generation of artists who can explore innovative forms of artistic expression.
Conclusion
The Atsur exhibition curated by OSENGWA, in partnership with Afrilabs, was a profound celebration of art's evolution in the digital age. It showcased how African artists are embracing technology to reach a broader audience and redefine the future of African creativity. The fusion of art and technology is not just a trend; it represents a transformative force that elevates African art onto the global stage.
We invite you to explore the exhibition catalog here where you can view the captivating art pieces while gaining valuable insights into the featured artists and panelists.
