This conference brought together scholars, researchers and enthusiasts for examining Benin art from multiple angles, shedding light on its enduring significance and evolving meanings across time and space. Participants delved into diverse perspectives, offering insights that deepened the peoples understanding of the artifacts beyond their aesthetic value. Looking at it from the historical context of their creation to their role in performance and cultural identity, the presentations revealed the complexity and richness embedded in the Benin artworks. The discussions also extended to global perspective of arts repatriation and the artifacts’ contested place in today’s world; a testament to their timeless relevance and the conversations they continue to inspire. The seminar served as a prelude to the Iyagbon Bokhian performance happening in 2026.
This conference was organized by Samson Ogiamien, head of the association Yaruya and Repatriates artistic researcher, in collaboration with Cie Onyrikon, Universalmuseum Joanneum, National Museum Benin City and Department of Theater Art of University of Benin
Speakers
Samson Ogiamien (Artist), Prof. Eddy Erhagbe (Department of History and International Studies, University of Benin), Eric Ogbemudia (Sculptor, Bronze Casters’ Guild), Godfrey Osaesiomo Ekhator (Dept. Of History, University of Benin), Prof. Kokunre Agbontaen-Eghafona (Dept. Of Cultural Anthropology, University of Benin), Patrick Oronsaye (Artist, Historian), Prof. Chris Ugolo (Dept. of Theater Arts, University of Benin)
See documentation here:
