Bellemskey's Blog

This article was first published in Business Day Newspaper of 11th October, 2018. One of the common sins of Social Researchers is that after several years on the job, they begin to see human beings as tools to be used to achieve their research objectives. They no longer see the human side of their participants, but see them as mere puns on their chess board; just for the purpose of accomplishing a great research piece for publication or one that the client would be happy with when delivered. Unless social researchers train themselves consciously, they would find themselves guilty of this sin. I confess, I’m sometimes guilty. Ever so often, I catch myself veering off at events. Instead of relaxing and enjoying the moment, I seat there wishing I could share a few questionnaires, conduct a quick focus group or personal interviews to capture people’s opinions on any subject; especially when I have spotted a few folks in the crowd who seem quite opinionated. Of course, in a country ...

In 2014 to be precise, the British Council in Nigeria commissioned my firm to conduct a study on the Creative Sector in Nigeria. The study was to focus mainly on capturing the demographics of art audiences and the consumption of creative art offerings, of various types, in Nigeria. I recall the project was signed off by Ojoma Ochai, Director Arts, British Council Nigeria.  You could imagine my excitement!! As an art buff, i super excited at the opportunity to lead a team of researchers to conduct a study focusing on my personal area of interest. As one would expect, the assignment offered me the opportunity of meeting and interviewing loads of interesting people and creative art personalities in Nigeria, such as - Nigerian Folk Artist and Founder of Eni'Obanke Art Centre, Segun Akinlolu aka Beautiful Nubia; Goethe Institute's Andre Schmatel; Wunika Mukan of African Artist Foundation; Muson Centre's Gboyega Banjo; Tola Akerele of Bogobiri House Lagos; Funmi Ogbogu of Negro...

Sometime in July 2018, while on summer vacation, i had the opportunity to visit the British Museum in London. As a natural lover of the arts, it was such an interesting experience for me as i had the opportunity to view art pieces from all across the world. I was particularly fascinated by the sheer quantum and quality of art works from all over the world Africa domiciled at the British Museum. As you walk into the Sainsbury African Galleries at the British Museum, you are welcomed by a giant art piece by Ghanaian Art Master El-Anatsui titled "Man's Cloth". Never before had i seen an art gallery with such amount of Art pieces from African origin and all over the world. From Igbo Ukwu Art, to Benin Bronze & Wood Carvings, Ife Bronze, Okpella Masquerade... The list is endless! I would try my best to share as much pictures as i can here: The Pottery Section is Mind Blowing! Find some ...