The Creative Arts and Visual Imagery Centre (CAVIC) recently launched a groundbreaking virtual art exhibition that demonstrates the powerful fusion of technology and African artistic expression. This innovative showcase revealed how Nigerian creatives are leveraging artificial intelligence to revolutionize storytelling while celebrating rich cultural heritage.
Immersive Installations Redefine African Narratives
Among the standout pieces was "Onugbo ml'Oko – A Tale of Shadows and Brotherhood," which captivated audiences with sophisticated projection mapping technology. This immersive experience brought to life themes of kinship and sacrifice, drawing inspiration from the celebrated play by Samsudeen Amali. The installation successfully demonstrated how traditional African storytelling can be enhanced through modern technological applications.
Another remarkable creation was the Interactive Installation Participatory Game, which transformed passive viewers into active participants. This innovative approach encouraged collaboration among attendees, creating a dynamic platform where stories evolved through collective input and engagement.
Technology as a Creative Catalyst
The exhibition featured "Reflections of Time," an environmental installation that used mirrors to scatter light and create shifting fractal patterns. This thought-provoking piece engaged visitors in visual conversations about time's impact on personal and collective memories, transforming abstract concepts into tangible experiences.
Equally compelling was "Can You Hear Me Now?" which masterfully combined projection art with spoken word performances. This multi-sensory installation merged visual and auditory elements to explore complex themes of communication and understanding, offering audiences both intimate and expansive narrative experiences.
Visionary Leadership on AI and Youth Empowerment
At the event, Philip Agbese Jr., CAVIC's creative director, emphasized the organization's commitment to empowering young Nigerians through technology. "Our theme this year, 'Merged Realms: Beyond Boundaries,' aims to transcend traditional narratives and explore innovative artistic expressions through technology," Agbese stated.
He articulated a future where artificial intelligence plays a crucial role in shaping Nigeria's creative economy, noting that with proper guidance and tools, young people can significantly improve their economic prospects while addressing social challenges like youth restiveness.
Marina el-Chalouhi, an account director at Obsidian and AI expert, praised Africa's growing influence in art and technology innovation. "The narrative around African art is changing; it is expansive and filled with incredible talent. As an AI expert, I'm here to explore how AI can enhance filmmaking and push the boundaries of creativity in Africa," she remarked.
Participating artist and electronic engineer Danial Agbese provided crucial insights about AI's role in creativity, clarifying that AI serves as an enhancement tool rather than a replacement for artistic vision. He compared AI to a camera in the hands of a skilled photographer, emphasizing that the technology requires artistic expertise to create extraordinary results.
The exhibition, held at the CAVIC Centre in Abuja on November 16, 2025, successfully demonstrated how technology can foster meaningful connections between artists, their cultural roots, and diverse audiences. This event marks a significant milestone in Nigeria's growing influence in the global digital art landscape.
