Famous self-taught Nigerian Digital artist Osinachi has announced a creator accelerator program that promises to elevate the careers of artists and creators across Africa. According to an announcement made by MakersPlace, an NFT marketplace, the selected participants will have their artworks premiered in an online MakersPlace exhibition and will be on show at Art Week Miami, America’s leading contemporary and modern art fair.
The accelerator program aims to appreciate rare and authentic digital fine art, give African creators a bigger chance to succeed, and empower communities in the NFT art world. Application to the accelerator program is available to digital artists living or residing in Africa.
Osinachi Igwe grew up in Aba, a commercial city in Nigeria. He was born Prince Jacon Oisanchi Igwe. From a younger age, he liked working with his hands, so he used to meddle with computers. Later, he began to create digital arts from his personal experience, starting at 13. His first participation in the crypto art space was in 2017. Since then, his works have been displayed in many exhibits worldwide, such as in Zurich, London, and New York.
“I was born in Aba, Nigeria, with limited access to a computer, let alone any exposure to digital art. I feel so honored to have risen in the space so quickly, and I want to return the favor to leading digital artists in Africa. I know from personal experience how challenging it can be to be creative with limited resources, and I want to highlight these talented artists in Africa to show the world how gifted these designers truly are. MakersPlace is helping me provide the opportunity to shine a light on Africa’s talent and raise awareness for my fellow gifted designers,” said Osinachi.
Osinachi is the first African NFT artist to auction works at Christie’s Europe. Famously referred to as “Africa’s foremost crypto artist,” he made a big contribution to the African art space by using tools like Microsoft Word to illustrate colorful, stunning, figurative portraits. Many of his works have the theme of homophobia, masculinity, gender roles, and other topics.
He aims to inspire other African designers and artistic creators. He wants to contribute more, enrich the crypto art scene in Africa, and create awareness for the arts on the continent. This accelerator program on MakersPlace is his effort to achieve that purpose.
Those who are interested can apply here. The deadline is October 12.
“Osinachi is truly a gifted artist, and we’re honored to help him cultivate awareness for the emerging and premium-level artists in Africa. Our combined vision will help create a new appreciation for talented African artists, and we’re honored to help accelerate their professional careers,” said Craig Palmer, CEO of MakersPlace.
