In a significant development for Nigeria's visual arts community, the renowned sculptor and potter, Ato Arinze, has been officially confirmed as the substantive President of the Sculptors Association of Nigeria (SCAN). This move solidifies his leadership after a period of acting in the role.
Unanimous Endorsement for a Proven Leader
The appointment was made official by the association's Board of Trustees (BoT). The decision, reached on December 24, 2025, was unanimous, reflecting the board's full confidence in Arinze's interim performance. He had initially been appointed as interim President in March 2025. Based on his outstanding work throughout the year, the BoT moved to ratify his position for a full substantive tenure.
With this confirmation, Arinze will now serve an additional two years to complete his full term as the 4th substantive President of SCAN. This marks a new chapter for the association under his steady guidance.
The New Executive Team and a Storied Career
Arinze will lead a robust executive committee dedicated to advancing Nigerian sculpture. The team includes key figures such as Emmanuel Ubamadu as Secretary General, David Adeogun as Financial Secretary, and Muraina Akeem as Treasurer. Other vice-presidents represent various geopolitical zones, ensuring national coverage.
Ato Arinze's artistic journey is deeply impressive. With a career spanning over three decades, he has been a full-time studio artist since 1992, operating from his base in Ayobo, Lagos. His education took him from Zixton Secondary School in Anambra State to the Anambra State Polytechnic, Oko, and finally to Yaba College of Technology in Lagos, where he specialized in Sculpture.
An Artist Rooted in Society and Nature
Arinze is celebrated for his mastery of ceramics and sculpture, producing both realistic and abstract works. His art is profoundly connected to his environment, drawing inspiration from nature and everyday life to reflect on societal issues. He famously views the artist's role as akin to that of a journalist—observing, interpreting, and documenting the human condition through form and texture.
Beyond his studio practice, Arinze is a pivotal leader in the arts community. He is the Co-founder and Chairman of the Board of Trustees for Visions in Clay Artists Network (VICAN) and coordinates the Artzero Group. Both platforms are instrumental in promoting contemporary Nigerian art. His works are held in numerous public and private collections across Nigeria and internationally.
This appointment positions Ato Arinze to further shape the future of sculpture and ceramics in Nigeria, leveraging his extensive experience, artistic acclaim, and now, his formalized leadership role within SCAN.
