A New Chapter for African Art
ArtNativ launched on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at Edmonton Unlimited, bringing together artists, collectors, and art enthusiasts from across Africa and the diaspora.
The event marked a new chapter for African creativity — unveiling a platform designed to connect artists from underrepresented regions with global audiences through technology, transparency, and storytelling.
The Founder’s Vision
In his opening address, Damilare Akinloye, Founder and CEO of ArtNativ, shared the story that birthed the platform.
“I grew up surrounded by art — my father, my uncle, my grandfather — all artists,” he said. “I saw their brilliance, but also their struggle. ArtNativ was born from the question: What if technology could bridge that gap?”
Akinloye described ArtNativ as “a bridge between cultures, a stage for underrepresented artists, and a trusted space for global collectors who value authenticity and meaning.”
He emphasized that the platform empowers artists to set their own prices, retain ownership of their works, and tell their stories on their own terms.
Artists in Focus
The event spotlighted two remarkable artists — Lawal Olatunji and Kehinde Akanni — whose works beautifully represented the creativity and diversity of African expression.
Their presentations underscored ArtNativ’s mission to give African artists the visibility and recognition their work deserves on the global stage.
Speaker’s Corner: Artistry Without Borders
A highlight of the event was the Speaker’s Corner, featuring Yemisi Shyllon, Dotun Popoola, and Fia Darrok, who explored the theme “Artistry Without Borders.”
Yemisi Shyllon — Founder/CEO, Omooba Yemisi Adedoyin Shyllon Art Foundation (OYASAF) described Artistry Without Borders as an opportunity for Africa to showcase its rich creativity, break stereotypes, and let its artistry influence the world. He emphasized that the initiative provides both young and established artists a platform to break barriers and challenge misconceptions.
Dotun Popoola — Synergetic Metal Sculptor highlighted how leveraging technology is a game-changer in the art space, enabling artists to connect with global audiences and transcend limitations through innovation and digital access.
Fia Lysy Darroch — Contemporary Art Acquisitions Manager echoed the importance of technology, noting that ArtNativ is creating a platform where African artists can reach global audiences, showcase authentic work, and collaborate across borders.
Looking Ahead
In outlining ArtNativ’s next steps, Akinloye shared plans to consolidate its artist base in Nigeria before expanding across Africa to Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, and beyond.
He also revealed that ArtNativ will be onboarding Canadian artists to foster creative collaborations, envisioning a future where “a Lagos painter could collaborate with a Calgary sculptor.”
The roadmap includes VR showcases, global residencies, and art-data tools — all aimed at deepening connections between artists and collectors around the world.
A Movement Begins
As the event concluded, one message resonated through the room: African art has always inspired the world, and through ArtNativ, it can now move freely, without borders.
Watch recap video on YouTube @artnativhq