SARTCOL at the YSMA Art Market Forum

The Society for Art Collection (SARTCOL) was ably represented at the inaugural YSMA Art Market Forum, hosted by the Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art, Pan‑Atlantic University, as part of Lagos Gallery Weekend. The forum brought together leading voices in the art community, conceived as a platform to spark dialogue around art collecting, cultural literacy, and Nigeria’s evolving art ecosystem.

The day opened with a keynote address by Prince Yemisi Shyllon, Grand Patron of the Museum, who shared his personal journey as a collector. He emphasized that collecting is not reserved for the rich and wealthy; rather, it begins with curiosity and passion. His words set the tone for the day’s discussions.

The central panel, “Why We Collect – The Story, The Strategy, The Market,” featured Mrs. Sandra Mbanefo Obiago (Founder, SMO Contemporary) and Mrs. Ifeyinwa Ann Momah, a SARTCOL board member, with moderation by Gabriela Gonzalez. Both panelists reflected on how their backgrounds and family experiences laid the foundation for what has become a serious passion for collecting. Mrs. Momah offered thoughtful insights into the intrinsic nature of collecting, drawing parallels with a child’s instinct to hold onto things that resonate, and describing collecting as an extension of human impulse and taste. Mrs. Obiago, meanwhile, highlighted the influence of her father, an architect, and the cultural exposure she gained from traveling across Nigeria. Her concern, she noted, has always been how to democratize art and make it accessible to the wider public.

Another key contribution came from Mr. Adedotun Sulaiman, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Yemisi Shyllon Museum and a member of SARTCOL’s Governing Council. He offered practical guidance for emerging collectors, encouraging them to begin with prints as a more affordable entry point before progressing to original works. His perspective reinforced SARTCOL’s commitment to nurturing new generations of collectors and broadening participation in Nigeria’s art ecosystem.

The Society’s presence was further highlighted by Mr. Yacoub Adeleke, Head of Operations at SARTCOL. His contributions underscored the organization’s commitment to advancing cultural literacy and supporting Nigeria’s art market. During the Q&A session, he emphasized the importance of awareness and enlightenment in inspiring young and emerging collectors to embrace art. He echoed the idea of starting with prints as an accessible entry point, referencing Professor Ebun Clark’s exhibition of her print collection at the National Museum as a powerful example.

Throughout the discussions, panelists agreed that collectors play a vital role in giving art momentum, moving works from studios into homes, institutions, and public spaces. The forum also highlighted the pressing need for stronger art criticism in Nigeria, a cause closely aligned with SARTCOL’s vision of building standards and deepening cultural practice.

By contributing voices and perspectives at the YSMA Art Market Forum, SARTCOL reaffirmed its leadership in shaping Nigeria’s art ecosystem, championing accessibility, nurturing collectors, and ensuring that art remains meaningful and enduring across generations.

Mr. Adedotun Sulaiman brought the event to a close with his remarks, commending the panelists, the moderator, and the entire YSMA team for successfully hosting the inaugural forum.