Textile artist and painter Nike Davies-Okundaye will be hosted by the American embassy today as part of activities marking her 60th birthday.
The renowned artist clocked 60 on Monday, May 23, and hosted friends and journalists at a quiet celebration held at her expansive gallery in Lekki, Lagos.
“I am very happy that God has brought me this far and I want to use this opportunity to thank everyone that has been there through the years. I have celebrated my birthdays in different countries but this year, I have decided to celebrate it in Nigeria. I was meant to be in Ethiopia for a leadership conference where I was to be recognised, but since I wanted to celebrate in Nigeria, I was determined to enjoy this period with friends and family. So I decided to send my daughter to represent me,” she disclosed at the event.
The artist who has run the Nike Centre for Art since 1983 also used the occasion to encourage young people to develop new skills. She advised them to be dedicated and hardworking because it is the way to go.
The American Wives Association held a private dinner in her honour yesterday while artist Kathleen Stafford will hold an exhibition at the Nike Centre for Art in early June. A cultural fiesta which date is yet to be announced is also in the pipeline.
Okundaye is a textile artist who has developed a unique style of batik making over the years. She has taught the technique in different parts of the world and has trained over 3000 girls at her art centres in Osogbo, Lagos, Kogi and Abuja. She is a recipient of numerous awards and has participated in over 102 solo exhibitions and 36 group art exhibitions.
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