Entering the Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art (YSMA) is like stepping into a treasure trove of Nigerian art. This two-floored museum, the first purpose-built, privately owned one in the country, houses over 1,000 artworks showcasing Nigeria’s rich artistic heritage. Its ambience is grand yet welcoming. From the very entrance, you’re greeted by a stunning array of sculptures, installations, and paintings, each one a testament to the creative heritage of Nigeria.

For an art enthusiast like myself, the chance to encounter works I’d only previously encountered in textbooks was nothing short of thrilling. Bruce Onobrakpeya’s intricate panel of miniatures (1993) jumped from the pages of my old Cultural and Creative Arts textbook into vibrant reality. Similarly, Lamidi Fakeye’s powerful Ogun Verandah Post (2008) stood as a tangible representation of the artistic giants I’d only read about.

The YSMA is more than just a celebration of the past. The museum masterfully blends Art Legends with the voices of Contemporary Art Visionaries such as Lasisi Lamidi, Imran Tilde, Njra Garba, Jacob Onoja, Salim Abdulrazaq and many more.

A great beauty of the YSMA is the diversity of mediums to express beauty, creativity and emotions. The museum brims with works that explore an array of mediums, from thought-provoking installations crafted from recycled phone parts to foam to plastic among many others.

Peju Alatise’s “The 9-Year-Old Bride” installation was a captivating piece. Its emotive power was undeniable, prompting a silent thought to how everyone’s back is turned as the young bride faces the world.

It was also a great experience to see historical Benin sculptures, Ife art and Nok art. Visiting this museum felt like completing a part of my junior school education, perhaps an excursion that should have happened then after reading all about them.

This visit helped deepen my understanding of Nigerian art history and gave me a new perspective to appreciate it more.