Nigerian commercial law firm, Kenna Partners, recently co-hosted an art workshop in collaboration with the Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art (YMSA) of the Pan Atlantic University and the Guild of Professional Fine Artists of Nigeria (GFA), addressing critical issues surrounding copyright, intellectual property rights, and the legal frameworks governing the creative ecosystem.
The workshop, themed: “Empowering Artists: Navigating Legal and Contractual Issues in the Arts World,” marked a significant milestone in fostering a better understanding of the crucial role these legal protections play in safeguarding the rights and livelihoods of professional artists.
The speakers, Okechukwu Ekweanya and Ifunanya Ikwueto, partner and associate respectively at Kenna Partners, undertook deep dives into a range of pertinent topics, including the intricate considerations surrounding art-specific agreements, the enforcement mechanisms of intellectual property laws, and the systemic challenges that often leave artists vulnerable to exploitation.
The discussions aimed to empower artists with a deeper comprehension of their rights to enable them to better navigate the complex legal landscape, thereby strengthening their creative practices while protecting their intellectual property for enhanced earnings and fostering the growth of the country’s vibrant creative and cultural sector.
Ekweanya commented: “Protecting intellectual property is paramount for Nigerian artists to thrive in the creative economy. Continuous learning and seeking legal counsel are essential for artists to navigate the complexities of IP protection in Nigeria. In this way, Nigerian artists can safeguard their creative endeavours, foster a thriving creative economy, and contribute significantly to the cultural heritage of the nation.”
Addressing the workshop participants, the Senior Partner at Kenna Partners, Co-Founder of the Society for Collecting Art (SARTCOL), and Co-Author of “Creating Art: Authenticity and Ownership in the Visual Arts,” Professor Fabian Ajogwu, SAN, emphasised the immense value that artists contribute to society in preserving history and culture through their works. He underscored the importance of equipping artists with proper knowledge of their rights to safeguard their creative freedom and economic potential.
The Senior Advocate stated that: “Artists are the visionaries who create societal value and document our heritage. It is essential for those in the art business to be well-informed about their rights, ensuring clarity in their dealings and professional practices to protect their creative and cultural contributions effectively.”
In his address, the Director of YMSA and Co-Author of Creating Art, Dr. Jess Castellote reiterated the commitment of the museum to empower the creative sector. He said: “At YSMA, we recognize that the creative economy is a driving force for innovation, cultural preservation, and economic growth. By equipping artists with knowledge of their rights, particularly around copyright, we aim to bridge a crucial gap that not only strengthens their careers but also supports national development.”
On his part, the President of GFA, George Edozie, emphasised the workshop’s importance, stating: “This initiative goes beyond education. It is a call to action for artists to understand and assert their rights. By protecting their intellectual property, they ensure their creativity is respected and fairly rewarded, which in turn elevates the entire creative industry.”
The maiden programme was attended by 30 top artists and described as a significant step towards empowering the creative economy and safeguarding the future of the arts ecosystem in Nigeria.
Kenna Partners, the Society for Collecting Art, and the YSMA of the Pan Atlantic University affirmed their commitment to supporting the creative industry in Nigeria through initiatives such as this workshop, which empower artists to understand and effectively manage their intellectual property rights.
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