In a bid to promote cultural heritage and artistic expression, the National Museum of Unity Ibadan, in conjunction with I French Institute of Research in Africa (FRA-Nigeria):, recently hosted a pottery-making workshop at the Museum complex, Aleshinloye Ibadan.
The event rallied students from primary, secondary and tertiary institutions including members of the NYSC, among the schools are Amazing Grace Model School, Ibadan Grammer School, Samfort Group of Schools, Matrix College, and Qiblah High School,
Others are Glorious Kings and Queens College, University of Ibadan, Lead City University and Polytechnic Ibadan.
The workshop provided a unique opportunity for students to learn about pottery making and its cultural significance. Akin Potter explained that pottery is an ancient craft that has been used for various purposes, including cooking, storage, and decoration. He demonstrated the three processes involved in making pottery: hand-building, wheel-throwing, and firing.
The students were also given the opportunity to try their hands at making pottery, under the guidance of Akin Potter. He encouraged them to explore their creativity and experiment with different shapes and designs.
Speaking at the pottery-making workshop, the guest lecturer, Mr Oyekere Akinkunmi Oluwatobi (Akin Potter), who emphasised the economic importance of pottery to livelihood enjoined the participants should not only see pottery mere clay art and designs but also a career that will open an avenue to earn a living through its numerous benefits.
Pottery making has been an essential part of human culture for thousands of years,
offering numerous benefits and importance in various aspects of life. The benefit is
overwhelming and numerous as it is the bedrock of life.
Akinpotter who spoke on the cultural significance, therapeutic benefits and educational value said that pottery preserves traditional techniques, reflects history and identity of a community, and fosters cultural exchange and appreciation.
In his final remarks, Akin Potter emphasized the economic benefits of pottery making, noting that it can be a lucrative business that generates income in dollars.
He encouraged the students to consider pursuing a career in pottery making, citing its potential to provide financial stability and independence.
In her welcome address, the Curator, National Museum of Unity, Ibadan, Mrs Oriyomi Pamela Otuka, who welcomed everyone on behalf of the Director General, Mr Olugbile Holloway said “this workshop, sponsored by IFRA Nigeria, brings together art lovers, students and enthusiasts to explore the rich traditions of pottery-making.
According to her, “The art of pottery connects us to our past, preserves heritage and serves as a medium for creativity and innovation. This hands-on workshop offers participants the opportunity to engage in the craft, from moulding clay to creating artistic pieces.
“We are grateful for IFRA Nigeria’s support and commitment to promoting arts and culture in Nigeria. We encourage you to approach the workshop with open minds and curious spirits, and we look forward to a productive and inspiring experience.”
In her remarks, Dr. Delphine Mantetta, Deputy Director of IFRA-Nigeria, Good morning, all, ladies, gentlemen, children, students, Today is very a special day: it is the day of the inauguration of a project we built several months ago for the National Museum of Unity, Ibadan and with the Museum of Unity of Ibadan.
“This project was conceived by Dr Barbara Morovich, director of IFRA-Nigeria; Mrs Oriyomi Pamela Otuka, curator of the National Museum of Unity, Ibadan; Christiana Alagbe, her invaluable right-hand woman and myself, Dr Manetta of IFRA-Nigeria.
“This project was also made possible thanks to Ms. Adejoke R. Adetoro, a Researcher and Historian. Ms. Adejoke Adetoro has undoubtedly enriched this project that I am delighted to see come to fruition.
“Our general idea was to bring some objects of the museum back to life and to make them ‘speak and talk’ to new audiences. It is actually part of a broader initiative dedicated to Nigerian neglected heritage, i.e. heritages that are unfortunately unknown or not enough known.”
“So, our aim is to promote these heritages, in particular the heritage that the Museum keeps preciously, and to create new forums for dialogue about them.
“Today is a day during which this abstract idea becomes real. With the invaluable contribution of Mr. Oyelere Akinkunmi Oluwatobi, also known as Akinpotter, a talented artist and entrepreneur who will take us through the pottery-making process.”
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