In an effort to advance arts management, conservation, and education in West Africa, the Mellon Foundation has granted $3 million to the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) in Benin City, Nigeria.
This significant funding is a crucial step toward MOWAA’s objective of enhancing and transforming the cultural landscape of West Africa. Established in 2020 as an independent, non-profit entity, MOWAA is dedicated to preserving heritage, expanding knowledge, and celebrating West African arts and culture. The museum collaborates with various partners to create programs and resources that deepen the connection between contemporary art and West African heritage, aiming to become a leading center for African and diaspora artists and scholars.
The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, known as the largest supporter of the arts and humanities in the U.S., has been a long-time advocate for the importance of the humanities and arts in fostering human understanding.
MOWAA’s Executive Director, Philip Ihenacho, expressed gratitude for the grant, stating, “We are deeply thankful to the Mellon Foundation for their generous support. This grant will enable us to develop world-class facilities and programs that will enhance the management and conservation of our cultural heritage.”
The grant will fund key initiatives over the next three years, including arts management, skill development, career opportunities through contemporary art residencies and commissions, as well as archaeological research and heritage management.
MOWAA plans to inaugurate its first purpose-built facility, the MOWAA Institute, in November 2024. This new center will establish MOWAA as a hub for arts and heritage research and conservation, supporting museums throughout West Africa.
The Mellon Foundation’s donation highlights its recognition of MOWAA’s potential to rejuvenate Benin City as a major center for arts and culture in the region and to set new benchmarks for arts education and research.