In a groundbreaking alliance, Atsur Technologies has partnered with the Nigerian National Gallery of Art (NGA) to digitise an impressive collection of 3,000 masterpieces, significantly improving global access to Nigeria’s diverse artistic heritage.
The Atsur Media Advisor, Nosike Nwigene, made this known in a press statement detailing how this partnership aims to modernise the management and availability of the NGA’s vast digital collection.
Nwigene said that through this initiative, Atsur plans to develop a comprehensive system to catalogue and manage the gallery’s assets, enhancing accuracy in tracking, organising, and retrieving digital works.
“This system will empower researchers, educators, and the public to easily engage with and appreciate the artworks housed within the gallery.
“In addition to the catalogue system, Atsur will establish a secure Application Programming Interface (API) that will allow international audiences access to selected artworks, consequently elevating the global visibility of Nigerian art and culture.
“The partnership will also be accompanied by targeted media campaigns and events aimed at promoting Nigeria’s artistic achievements on the world stage,” he said.
According to the statement, the CEO of Atsur, Adaobi Orajiaku, expressed her enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “We are honoured to collaborate with the Nigerian National Gallery of Art to bring Nigeria’s artistic treasures to a global audience.
“This partnership reflects our commitment to leveraging technology for cultural preservation and accessibility.”
NGA’s Director-General, Ahmed Sodangi, highlighted the importance of this initiative, commenting, “This marks a significant step in modernising our collection management and expanding the reach of Nigerian art.
“We look forward to the opportunities this partnership will create for artists, researchers, and art enthusiasts worldwide,” he said.
He said the partnership is set to last for two years, with an option for renewal based on mutual agreement, underscoring the long-term vision for enhancing Nigeria’s artistic outreach.
Sodangi said that the NGA is committed to preserving and promoting Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage. It houses many artworks that reflect the nation’s historical and contemporary artistic traditions.