The Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, in collaboration with House of Crystal Empire, has presented the Canvas and Culture Art Festival with the theme, “Defining Us.”
The event, held recently at the Michael Okpara Auditorium, Umuahia, Abia State, aimed to promote artistic expression, celebrate cultural heritage, and encourage creativity among young people while showcasing the rich cultural identity of the state.
Speaking during the event, the Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Hon. Mathew Ekwuribe, described the festival as a platform for preserving cultural values, nurturing talent and fostering unity through art.
He noted that art remains a powerful tool for storytelling, identity preservation and socio-economic development, urging artists and creatives to continue using their talents to positively impact society.
The commissioner stated that the event, held in commemoration of World Art Day, also provided an opportunity to appreciate the Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, whose visionary, transformational and people-oriented leadership continues to redefine governance in the state.
“Today, as we gather to celebrate arts, culture and creativity, we are reminded that the story of a people is not told only through roads, buildings and economic indicators; it is also told through culture, values, imagination and creative expression. This understanding is at the heart of His Excellency’s vision for the new Abia”, he said.
Ekwuribe explained that the choice of the theme, “Defining Us”, was inspired by the need to preserve the people’s identity through culture.
“We are Igbos, a good number of us here, and once we can no longer speak our language or behave like Igbo people, we have lost that cultural value”, he said.
He advised those who are unable to speak their indigenous languages to make conscious efforts to learn them in order to preserve their cultural heritage.
He disclosed that work is ongoing at the Ojukwu Bunker and the Arochukwu Waterfall, adding that there are 55 viable tourist attraction sites across Abia State.
“The first thing the Governor of Abia State instructed me to do on the assumption of office was to go round the state and discover these tourist centres”, he stated.
The commissioner noted that the creative economy has now become a globally recognised sector with immense economic potential.
He stressed that the future belongs not only to those who build industries but also to those who create ideas, shape narratives and inspire imaginations.
“This is why today’s event is significant for young people. The arts exhibition involving our secondary school students is one of the most important aspects of the festival.
“We are nurturing creativity, encouraging innovation and investing in the future of our dear state, Abia. Creativity is the ability to see value where others see waste, opportunities where others see limitations and responsibilities where others see obstacles”, he added.
He further stated that such a mindset is essential not only for artists but also for building a great society.
Ekwuribe reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage, supporting artistic excellence, promoting creativity and positioning Abia as a hub for arts, culture and innovation.
He commended art teachers for their efforts in ensuring students embrace the arts, and urged more schools to incorporate art education into their curriculum.
He also praised the organisers for providing a platform that promotes creativity and cultural awareness, reaffirming the ministry’s commitment to supporting initiatives that advance the creative economy in Abia State.
In his address, Governor Alex Otti, represented by his Deputy Governor, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, commended the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy and House of Crystal Empire for organising the festival.
“Art remains one of the most powerful expressions of human identity. It preserves heritage, inspires innovation, fosters unity and provides the platform through which communities tell their stories to the world,” the governor stated.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting initiatives that showcase the richness of the state’s cultural heritage and encouraged participants to take full advantage of the exhibitions, cultural displays, networking opportunities and creative engagements offered by the festival.
The keynote speaker, Chiagoziem Orji, reminded participants that art is versatile and should be encouraged.
Also speaking, the Director of House of Crystal Empire, Chimdindu Onyekwulu, urged artists to remain committed to their craft and be hopeful that their hard work would eventually pay off.
During the panel discussion, Stanley Adiele, Chief Omeje Chukwudi, Nnamdi Udoka, Chimdindu Onyekwulu and Chiagoziem Orji identified inadequate sponsorship as one of the major challenges facing the arts sector. They noted that the situation has contributed to declining enrolment in art-related programmes and reduced interest in the profession, urging parents and guardians to encourage and support children who show interest in the arts.
In his vote of thanks, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Entertainment and Tourism, Justice Martins, commended the organisers for the successful programme and expressed appreciation to all participants.
Among the dignitaries present were commissioners, permanent secretaries, mayors, the General Manager of the Abia Newspapers and Publishing Corporation, Hon. Jones Nnanna Ike, and the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information, Sir Chris Onwuegbu.
Highlights of the event included a special performance by Azubuike Onwuka, cultural displays by the Council for Arts and Culture dance troupe, art and painting exhibitions, presentation of contestants’ artworks, prize presentations to outstanding painters, a body painting runway and other creative performances.
