Oji Onoko Chronicles Nigerian Full-Time Studio Artists

Oji Onoko's book, "The Artpreneurs: The Untold Story of Nigerian Full-Time Studio Artists," chronicles the journey of Nigerian artists who opted for full-time studio practice instead of secure employment. This community, including figures like Olu Ajayi and Kehinde Sanwo, spans three generations, from the 1980s pioneers to recent artists.

They rejected the conventional path of teaching or civil service, believing in art as a viable profession. The book documents their challenges, including structural adjustment, inflation, and a lack of institutional support, which made it difficult to earn a living from art.

Onoko emphasizes the importance of their early struggles before they gained recognition, showcasing their tenacity and entrepreneurial spirit in cultivating collectors and organizing exhibitions. The title "Artpreneurs" reflects their ability to merge creative practice with commercial survival, marking a significant chapter in Nigerian art history.