Omolara Coker has won the inaugural Myma Art Prize. The Nigerian visual artist claims the $5,000 grand prize in a major boost for West Africa's creative sector.
Named after renowned collector and arts patron Myma Belo-Osagie, the prize aims to discover and support emerging talent from Nigeria and Ghana. It addresses critical gaps in the region's creative infrastructure through funding, mentorship and exhibition opportunities.
Beyond the cash award, Coker will participate in a residency programme based in Benin City. Finalists also gain access to artist development initiatives and high-profile exhibitions across the region.
Edward Prah, a Ghanaian artist, finished as first runner-up with $2,500. Nana Oduro, also from Ghana, secured second place and received $1,000.
Metis Capital Partners coordinated the prize with curatorial support from Ugonna Ibe of Yenwa Gallery. The initiative represents a long-term commitment to nurturing African contemporary art and building sustainable careers.
Belo-Osagie spent decades collecting work from emerging Nigerian and Ghanaian artists. She built these relationships through artisan markets, small galleries and personal connections before African contemporary art gained global recognition.
Her children established the prize to honour her legacy. They wanted to create infrastructure that West African artists have historically lacked—stronger collector networks, curatorial support and reliable economic opportunities.
Coker's winning works examine freedom, community and belonging. Pieces like "You Need an Invitation" and "Sharing Space" celebrate collective growth over individual achievement.
Prah drew inspiration from photo archives and cultural materials in his submission. His innovative use of iron paint and mixed media explored themes of memory, labour and social history.
Vincent Frimpong, another finalist, created environmentally conscious pieces from reclaimed shoes and recycled plastic. Works titled "The Trapper I" and "The Trapper II" transformed discarded materials into contemporary art.
A rotating panel of West African artists, curators and scholars selected the winners. The group included creative professionals from both the continent and the diaspora.
Organisers described the prize as a launchpad for emerging talent. They believe sustained investment in artists will help shape the future of contemporary African art.
