THE AFRICAN ARTIST FOUNDATION by Vanguard Media Limited

June 30, 2013

Everybody is... pastel shoe

chart

azu nWaGboGu

Wunika Mukan

Joseph GerGel

THE AFRICAN ARTIST FOUNDATION - Promoting Art and Photography

e m a i l : a l l u r e fo r t h e wo rl d @ v a n g u a r d n g r. c o m

FASHION 4-5 Everybody is...

6 Pastel Shoe Chart

June 30 - July 6

THIS WEEK

Inside

ON THE COVER

FEATURES 12 • Get Captivated - In the History of Your Life Let God remain the Star - continued • Escapades of Style - The Fortieth Birthday Party

HEALTH 14

Flabby Arms - 5 Quick Strength training exercises

PEOPLE 15

7 - 10

Inspiration at its peak! House Of Tara Launches 100 Voices’ Book

“Sometimes, we need a few people in our lives who will calmly call our bluff”

Carl Reiner

Robert Brault

“You cannot be lonely if you like the person you’re alone with” Wayne W. Dyer

PHOTOGRAPHY Moussa Moussa. DRESS Hollies. JEWELRY Cephas. MAKE-UP Azuka Mordi

Dr. SunWolf

“Lust is easy. Love “Once you find is hard. Like is most someone to share your ups and downs, important.” downs are almost as good as ups”

...African Artists’ Foundation (AAF) has been an innovative and vital force in the Nigerian arts community over the last seven years. It is a non-profit organization dedicated to the development of contemporary art, providing immense opportunities for artists to develop their practice and establish a platform for artistic expression. Its core staff is an eclectic and international group.

At the helm of the African Artist Foundation are three professionals: an artist, a curator and a broadcaster; an eclectic blend which has birthed new life on the foundation. Established seven years ago, by Azu Nwagbogu, to promote and protect the artist and his creation, the foundation has become the rallying point for art practitioners. In an effort to embrace all forms of art, the foundation expanded its repertoire to include photography. Thus began the search for great photography and artistic works. The foundation also launched the National Arts Competition and the LagosPhoto exhibition. The twin projects have generated a much needed activity in the sector. The arts competition, now in its 6th year, is already calling out for entries with mouth-watering prizes; artists will surely have a good time. In a chat with Allure, the trio of Azu, Joseph and Wunika showed the beauty of the fusion of art and photography. See pp 7-10. Our fashion pages brings to the fore what’s trending with everyone now. See ‘Everybody Is...’ on pp 4&5. Enjoy!

CREDITS:

COVER PHOTOS: BAMIYO ISELEMA EMINA JOSEPH’S TuxEdO: OUCH! JOSEPH’S JOSEPH’S Tux SHiRT,bOw TiE and Cuff linkS: GEOrGIO CLOtHIEr CO. MakE-uP: SEUN

wunika COVER PagE dRESS: OdIO MIMONEt wunika’S EaRRingS and Ring: LA BENNIS wunika’S REd SHOES: SHOE LOUNGE STYliST: dANIELLA@StYLELUxUrYBYdANI STOCkiST Of all iTEMS: 08083766275

Remmy Diagbare

TEAM EDITOR REMMY DIAGBARE DEPUTY EDITOR JEMI EKUNKUNBOR ASST. EDITOR YEMISI SULEIMAN CONTRIBUTORS PRINCESS KATE EMIKO BAMIYO ISELEMA EMINA JEROME CODJO-YAOVI ONIPEDE

CONT. EDITOR LATASHA NGWUBE COPY EDITOR DD WILLIAM-WEST CORRESPONDENTS FATIMA GARBA DAVINA AYODELE LAYOUT / DESIGN Gregory Obi PHOTO OSCAR OCHIOGU

Printed and published by Vanguard Media Ltd Vanguard Avenue Kirikiri Canal; P.M.B 1007 Apapa, Lagos. For advertisement / enquiries, call DEBBIE: 08039675880, OGE: 08039777910 Office Auxiliary: EBERE OKOH

FA S H I ON

GIRLY Charms by - Yemisi Suleiman

ERDEM ALICIA EMBROIDERED OVERLAY DRESS

This season’s trend is all about femininity; from sheer blouses, silk lingerie, print tailored dress to a cute clutch, ladylike dressing has had a total revamp and now comes with a seriously seductive edge.

HOUSE OF FRASER CLUTCH

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Pick up a sheer blouse because transparent blouses have seductive appeal. Wear with silk lingerie in matching shades for that extra chic look.

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Perfect your swing in a tight fitting midiskirt paired with platform pumps.

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For the finishing touches add a statement necklace for an instant glow and a cute clutch to carry all your make-up essentials. After all a girl’s got to powder her nose.

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June 30, 2013 /

FA S H I O N

FASH IO N

Everybody is: by - Jemi Ekunkunbor

So many things are happening around the fashion world but here is what everybody is trending.

UJU ABORO VIXEN

Styling Long Hair

TOKE MAKINWA

The hair has been severally described as a woman’s crowning glory. The fuller it is, the nicer. Although some will still keep their low cut because it has become their signature style, these days, everybody is spotting long hair in different kinds of weave on.

Walking in Trendy High Heels

gucci tOte bag

What would a woman do without a pair of killer heels? Sky scrapper heels are still getting all the attention. It gives a woman gait and a confidence that only a high heel can give.

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MicHael KOrS HaNdbag

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OMAWUMI AKINNEFESI

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Wearing LBD The Little Black Dress is a wardrobe staple that won’t just go out of fashion. Like a pair of jeans trousers, the LBD is so versatile that it can be styled in a variety of ways. You can dress it up with a pair of strappy sandals for a cocktail party or pair with gladiator flats for a casual event.

/ June 30, 2013

audrey dreSS by celia ferNaNdeS

CHIKA OPARA

Carrying Big Bags Everybody is carrying big bags. It is just the right way to go. They are still the arm candy of choice. The big bags especially those with structured forms are fashionistas’ favourites. Big bags are great for carrying all your items including a clutch bag if you have to change from day to night. TARI ZENETIMI

NICKY COPPOLA

luicHiNy piNK platfOrM

June 30, 2013 /

FA S H I O N

FASH IO N

Everybody is: by - Jemi Ekunkunbor

So many things are happening around the fashion world but here is what everybody is trending.

uju abOrO vixEn

Styling Long Hair

TOkE makinwa

Walking in Trendy High Heels

gucci tOte bag

What would a woman do without a pair of killer heels? Sky scrapper heels are still getting all the attention. It gives a woman gait and a confidence that only a high heel can give.

lbd witH lace detail

MicHael KOrS HaNdbag

JeSSica SiMpSON peep tOe platfOrM

Omawumi akinnEfEsi

large-MiSSdiOr-SHOppiNgbag

/ June 30, 2013

audrey dreSS by celia ferNaNdeS

Chika Opara

niCky COppOla

luicHiNy piNK platfOrM

June 30, 2013 /

FA S H I O N

T R A H C

Pastel Shoe

by - Jemi Ekunkunbor

Pastel colours are soft, romantic colours that bring out the femininity in the way a woman looks. Many women who canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stand bright, sharp colours, make pastel, their obsession. Your look can be spiced up with baby blue, pale lemon, guava, pale pink, or lavender colours. Although these delectable colours can liven up your looks, pastel is a tricky one to pull. As with most rules in fashion, never over do things.

PASTEL PLATFORM

TWO TONE PASTEL MULE

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LIME GREEN PATENT WEDGE

PASTEL WEDGE

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Pastel shoes look wonderf ul in combination with wh ite pants or a light colored dress

SHADE LAMBOYE

black dress. This will Wear pastel shoes with your LBD or any create an outstanding look.

THREE TONE PASTEL WEDGE, CHLOE

You can also wear pastel colored shoes with shorts and skirts in much softer shades.

HERA CROSS STAP FLAT SHOE

/ June 30, 2013

One of the most alluring ways to make your paste l shoe count is to colour block. Combine your pastel shoe with a pastel dress or a pair of trousers.

REPORTAGE

T THE AFRICAN ARTIST FOUNDATION

- Promoting Art and Photography By - Remmy Diagbare

frican Artists’ Foundation (AAF) has been an innovative and vital force in the Nigerian arts community over the last seven years. It is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the development of contemporary art, providing immense opportunities for artists to develop their practice and establish a platform for artistic expression. Its core staff is an eclectic and international group. AAF has already cemented itself as a leading arts organization in Nigeria; in a cultural climate where very few options for artists exist outside of formal education. As the foundation puts it: “We are currently at a definitive turning point in the foundation’s evolution from an emerging start-up to a full-fledged arts institution. We are now ready to take the next step to expand our resources to be able to implement our long term mission in providing a sustainable outlet to develop contemporary art. As we increase the opportunities available for emerging artists, we aim to serve as a model for arts organizations

throughout the country and across the region. We also have a firm belief that art is the most sophisticated and therefore most powerful medium for social commentary and communication, which is important if a nation, continent and people must evolve and survive.” Established in 2007 in Lagos, Nigeria, African Artists’ Foundation aims to encourage the highest standard of art in Africa. African Artists’ Foundation plays a significant role in art and academic communities through organizing art exhibitions, festivals, competitions, residencies, and workshops with the aim of unearthing and developing talent, creating societal awareness, and providing a platform to express creativity. By providing assistance to professional and emerging artists in Africa and support to international exhibitions and community outreach programmes, African Artists’ Foundation views its contribution to a strong cultural landscape in Africa as a transformative element in driving social change. June 30, 2013 /

REPORTAGE

Azu Nwagbogu [Director]

zu Nwagbogu is the founder and director of the African Artists’ Foundation (AAF), a non- profit organization based in Lagos, Nigeria. AAF is dedicated to the promotion and development of contemporary African arts and artists. Nwagbogu founded the National Art Competition in 2008, an annual arts competition in Nigeria that provides a platform of exposure to emerging Nigerian artists. Nwagbogu also serves as founder and director of the LagosPhoto Festival, an annual international arts festival of photography that brings leading local and international photographers in dialogue with multi-faceted stories of Africa. Nwagbogu has served as a juror for the Dutch Doc and POPCAP Photography Awards. Nwagbogu lives and works in Lagos.

Are you a trained artist? If yes, which genre and are you still practising? No, I am not a trained artist but I have always had great appreciation of all genres of art. I see my role here not to create art myself but to participate in the facilitation of the development of a healthy arts scene in Nigeria and Africa as a whole. You established the african arts foundation 7years ago. Why did you feel there was need to set up an ngo instead of setting up a gallery? At the time the foundation was established, there were very few opportunities for artists to expose their works and advance their practice in Nigeria. I saw a major gap in the avenues that would build a sustainable contemporary arts scene and I felt that the creation of a non-profit organisation such as AAF would set a precedent for future cultural engagement. My brother, Chike Nwagbogu, had already established the Nimbus Gallery, which quickly became a breeding ground for emerging artists in the country so, with his guidance, I saw the immense talent pool waiting for more opportunities. Also through my close association with him, I realized that inherently the core of Nimbus practice was largely built as a charity even though it was known as a commercial space. In what ways have you helped to promote contemporary african arts in nigeria and in the diaspora? Our flagship projects – the LagosPhoto Festival, the National Art Competition, and the Female Artist Development Project – have created a foundation for artists to develop their career in diverse mediums and conceptual practices. Our gallery hosts exhibitions and workshops, and is constantly full of energy and artists mingling and hanging out. In this way, we have supported a thriving community of artists, which is the most important thing in creating the next generation of artists in the country.

/ June 30, 2013

robust entries or there is more funding from benefactors? Every year, our projects grow and we try to improve. The prize money is, of course, a major incentive for the artists involved as it will give them seed money for new projects and a sense of security to go on with their career as artists. However, the competition is much more than the prize money; it is a learning process for the artists and a challenge that has not been presented to them before. Our sponsors, Nigerian Breweries, have given us immense support from the very beginning, and the National Art Competition would not be possible without their commitment to arts and culture in Nigeria. What is the qualification for participation and how does one take part? The competition is open to everyone, whether you are an established artist or just starting out. Every year, we have a theme and artists submit proposals for unrealised work as an interpretation of that theme. Our judges, headed by the renowned artist, Prof. El Anatsui, select twelve finalists. The finalists are then invited to take part in an artist-retreat and their works are exhibited at the grand finale, where the winners are decided.

How will you describe contemporary nigerian art and other african artistic work? In the seven years I have been director of AAF, I have been amazed at the growth of artists in the country and the level of work produced. Contemporary art in Nigeria and the African continent is flourishing, and it is unique because it shows a fresh perspective in the international art world. There are two major projects – you started the National Arts competition and the Lagosphoto Festival. Could you tell me about these two projects? What was the vision and, so far, have you archieved your aims and aspirations for the two? The National Art Competition (NAC) began in 2008 as a platform for artists in the country to expose their works to a larger audience and, with a cash prize, to be able to use the money to develop future projects and also to support art as a viable career option. Since then, it has grown into a major entity in its own right with specific focus on conceptual artistic practices and large-scale installation and the use of non-traditional mediums and techniques. We need a presence such as the NAC in the country to show the creative community that their work is important and, through the prestige given by participating as a finalist in the competition, future opportunities for these artists to continue their work are opened. We must thank our primary sponsor, Nigerian Breweries PLC, for their consistent support and belief in this project and for backing the NAC from inception to date. The LagosPhoto Festival began in 2010 as the first and only international arts festival of photography in Nigeria. I observed that a growing number of photographers in the country were producing important bodies of work but there was little appreciation of photography in the country at that point and very few avenues to develop photography here. The best Nigerian photographers were being exhibited and appreciated abroad and I wanted to bring it back home for a Nigerian audience. Since then, we have created workshops and courses for emerging photographers. We bring in major international photographers to work alongside local photographers. We are also building LagosPhoto to have a permanent presence as a year-round space for photography. For this project, I must thank Etisalat Nigeria for their support from inception and my partner, Caline Chagoury, and all the staff of AAF especially, those who believed in the project from the start: Omotayo Adeola, Zainab Ashadu, Tinuke Olu (all of whom have since moved on to other things) and now the current team with Medina Dugger, Joseph Gergel, Wunika Mukan, Evelyn Aluede, and our interns and youth corpers. Working at AAF is a labour of love and is very demanding emotionally and spiritually. The arts competition is about to start and I see the prize money has been increasing yearly. This year, the winner will get n2 million. Is this to attract more

Who are the judges and how are the works judged? The judges change every year and come from the arts and cultural sectors of Lagos. As we generally have 10-12 judges per year, it is a very democratic process using a points system so that no person can influence the overall choices. The work is judged based on originality, interpretation of the theme, and execution. As artists work in many different mediums, it is difficult to compare one work with another but in the end, it is about how it all comes together and works. What is the prefered medium? There is no preferred medium. In fact, we encourage artists to think outside the box and blend mediums together. We are excited to see something new that has not been done before. Every year, we are pleasantly surprised at the complexity of the finalists’ work. In terms of appreciation and costing, would you say nigerian art is well appreciated and appropriately priced? We have a long way to go for the arts community in Nigeria to be properly funded and have the opportunity to grow at par with other international cities. We need government involvement and public-private partnerships, which is something we hope will escalate in the near future. For one thing, talent is not in short supply. In terms of the cost of artworks sold, it is still considerably cheaper than their counterparts in other parts of the world, so it’s a great time to invest because as the international community has its eye on African art, the prices will only increase. How much of art is photography and which medium would you place more value on in terms of message and aesthetics? Photography plays a major role in our society because, photography can be art. But it also exists in advertising, newspapers, billboards, science. There are so many definitions of photography that it is so much more than art. It is also accessible and can be understood by a wide public. But I would not place any more value on one medium than another as what is really important for us at the foundation is the ideas and messages that are behind the works and the medium only becomes the vehicle to express those messages. The truth is that there are no boundaries in contemporary art and with photography in particular, there are truly no limits. Is there any plan to introduce fashion as a marriage between proper art and photography? Of course, we see fashion as an integral part of contemporary art and have included fashion in the past and will continue to do so. We are interested in being inclusive and bringing the creative community together so, the more the merrier. Fashion can be a barometer to society as it involves self expression and identity. These are very important aspects of artistic expression.

CREDIT:

AZU’S KAFTAN: YOMI CASUAL

Joseph Gergel J

[Curator]

oseph Gergel is a curator at African Artists’ Foundation and LagosPhoto Festival. Gergel obtained his Master’s degree in Modern Art: Critical and Curatorial Studies from Columbia University and a Bachelors degree in Photography and Cultural Theory from New York University. He received a Certificate in Professional Photography from the Spéos Photography Institute in Paris, France. He has assisted in the curatorial departments at the Museum of Modern Art (New York), the New Museum of Contemporary Art (New York), and the Zendai Museum of Modern Art (Shanghai).

In what ways have you helped to promote contemporary african arts in Nigeria and in the diaspora? African Artists’ Foundation holds a central place in the contemporary arts scene in Nigeria as it offers opportunities for artists in a cultural climate where very few other opportunities exist for the arts. The most important thing that we do is to build a community for artists to come together and encourage their work as this creates a base that is sustainable and can continue to grow. promote with the festival? LagosPhoto is a platform to develop photography in Nigeria and the broader African continent and each October, the month-long festival extends to many satellite venues around the city simultaneously. I like to think that with LagosPhoto, we are taking over the city with images as we aim to reclaim public spaces and engage the general public with contemporary art. As one of only a handful of photography festivals on the continent, LagosPhoto serves an important role in uniting local and international photographers.

Describe what you have observed about contemporary african art and if this medium has international appeal? It is a very exciting time to be working in Lagos as the contemporary art scene in Africa and specifically in Nigeria is really at the cusp of explosion. While there is little infrastructure for the arts in Nigeria, including galleries, museums, representation for artists, and extended educational opportunities, the contemporary art scene is vibrant and growing at a rapid pace. In many ways, contemporary art in Africa can be easily compared to art that would be made in any other part of the world, as global patterns such as rapid urban development and technological changes are what many artists respond to regardless of geographic origin. In other ways, it is interesting to see the particular point of view of artists whose experiences are particular to their environment and speak to local concerns.

What type of pictures do you work with? What do you do with them afterwards? Each year, LagosPhoto has a theme and the work is chosen in relation to that theme. We include photojournalism, documentary photography, fashion photography, fine art, conceptual practices; increasingly looking at how artists expand our understanding of photography through more broadly image-based works. After the festival, we either keep the photographs in our permanent collection or return them to the artists, as per our individual agreements with the photographers.

Apart from promoting arts, your organisation is also involved in photography. What exactly do you

For the National Art Competition, artists can work in all mediums, not only photography. So, there are more elements involved. It is difficult to compare such diverse mediums as sculpture, video, and painting, to name a few, and the scale of the works is very different. During the competition, I look for something that is new; that has not been seen before, and that speaks to art’s relation to the society around it. What does it take to become a member of your foundation and how often do you hold exhibitions for your artists? Artists are welcome to come by the foundation and bring their works to show the curatorial team. Every week, we have many artists who come by for the first time to learn more about how they can become involved. We constantly have opportunities for artists to develop their practice and their career, whether that be inclusion in an exhibition or participation in the workshops and courses that we offer throughout the year. Each year, we hold 6-8 exhibitions at our gallery in Ikoyi, Lagos and they are a combination of solo exhibitions and group thematic shows.

How long have you been with the foundation and what is your role in the organisation? I arrived in Lagos last June from New York to work as a curator at the African Artists’ Foundation. As a curator, I work with artists to organise exhibitions at our gallery and our flagship projects, including choosing works and contextualizing the art to project an overarching message. I also work with the logistics of implementing our projects, which could be anything from the placement of artworks in the gallery to the continual search for funding.

How robust has the competition been? Has the quality of contenders been worth the money and time? With an annual theme that artists are asked to respond to, we continue to be greatly impressed in the conceptual breadth of the submissions and final works. A major part of the competition is the process from initial idea to the artist retreat, and the re-thinking and the re-working of the proposal as the artists explore their topics more. The competition is not only about the top prizes but a learning process and an avenue for artistic experimentation, where artists come in dialogue with each other and advance the discourse of contemporary art in Nigeria.

REPORTAGE

Is there a market internationally and locally for these pictures? There definitely is. While LagosPhoto is a non-profit entity, we are happy to put potential collectors in touch with the artists as it is a great platform for the photographers to expose their works to a wider audience. We have seen interest both locally and internationally. At our live auction during the LagosPhoto fundraiser last year, one photograph sold for five million naira! So, we are really starting to see photography being taken seriously as a viable medium for collecting and investing. What is it that makes a picture or work of art extra ordinary? It, of course, entirely depends on the individual image and the message that is conveyed. But, I would say that it is that feeling that makes you step back and really examine what you are looking at. Aesthetics is, of course, important. For me, I am attracted to the kinds of images that tell a story from a new perspective, regardless of whether it’s a pretty image or not. Is this what you look out for in the competition?

How will you describe contemporary nigeria art and other african artistic works? Like contemporary art anywhere in the world, it is impossible to describe such diverse artistic practices in a few adjectives as artists work in so many different ways and speak to many different issues. That being said, as all artists work from their personal experience and contexts, contemporary art in Africa contributes to the global art world by creating a more inclusive and well-rounded conversation. Is there any plan to introduce fashion as a marriage between proper art and photography? Fashion and art are very much inter-twined. It is impossible to separate the two. We have included fashion photography as an integral part of our LagosPhoto Festival and continue to do so. In our upcoming Female Artist Development Project exhibition, we have reached out to local fashion designers to come up with artworks based on the annual theme. Part of African Artists’ Foundation’s mission is to expand the boundaries of contemporary art in Nigeria and fashion is one of those mediums that brings art and life into a seamless rhythm. What do you find most exciting or gratifying about this job? For me, I find it extremely exciting to be working in Lagos at a time where the contemporary arts scene is still developing and coming into its own. The arts scene in Lagos is still somewhat hidden and underground but once you find it, you are amazed at the creative energy that is bubbling. What do you do for relaxation and enjoyment? The funny thing about working in the arts is that it never really turns off. Where art is my job, it is also social and continues after the day is over. The community of creative people in Lagos are constantly doing something new, whether that be a concert or an event or an opening. This has really given me the chance to explore Lagos and see the best of what it has to offer. It has given me a very unique perspective on Nigeria that many expatriates working in Nigeria might not have the chance to see. CREDIT: JOsEph’s ChECkERED TOp: Yomi Casual June 30, 2013 /

REPORTAGE

Wunika Mukan [Brand Director]

unika’s career began at Howard University Television, organizing fundraisers and campaign pledges for the University’s television station. In Washington DC she continued her career with the Discovery Channel before entering into the non- profit world with the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation and National Academy of Sciences. Wunika Mukan is a graduate of Howard University with a degree in Telecommunications Management and Economics. Wunika, Project Managed the Miss Nigeria Competition under AOE Events and Entertainment, while hosting the 2010 & 2011 Miss Nigeria Reality Show ‘Crowning of the Queen’. A 2-week Reality Program that aired on DSTV, NTA, HI-TV, Galaxy and AIT including hosting the LIVE AIT International 2011 Miss Nigeria Grand Finale. Wunika now serves as Director of the Women’s Film Club and Brand Director for the African Artists Foundation. The African Artists’ Foundation (AAF) is a non-profit organisation dedicated to the promotion and development of contemporary African art.

What did you do before joining the foundation and what do you do for the body? Before joining AAF as Brand Director, I worked in television and also as a producer. I’ve managed pageants and just recently started the Women’s Film Club in Lagos. From broadcasting to art. Why did you make the switch? I wouldn’t really call it a switch. Art is subjective and television is definitely a form of art. You need imagination, talent and creativity to create a programme. It’s art on a technical level. My work at the African Artists Foundation incorporates my love for art and media. Nigeria is at the cusp of using its art as a forum internationally and locally for safe expression, communication, exploration, imagination and cultural and historical understanding. It’s great to be a part of this movement at this moment in time. Are you a lover of the arts? You’ll be surprised what art can do for you whether it’s visual or performance. I love art. It helps with everything and if you allow it, it’ll do wonders for your brain. Art jumps over the process of linear and logical thinking. It trains the brain to shift and process differently, broaching old problems in new ways. But at the end of

/ June 30, 2013

- Alafuro Sikoki-Coleman, an award-winning industrial designer, is the Creative Director and Medina Dugger, a world renowned artist and human rights activist, is the Head Curator of AAF. The continued advancement of women is an issue we take seriously at the foundation through our public programmes and yearly Female Artists Development Initiatives and Mentorship Programmes. You handled the last photo Festival. How was that experience and how are you planning for this one? This is my first time organizing LagosPhoto in this position. It’s a great honour to participate in an event such as LagosPhoto at this particular time of global integration. The festival continues to be a cultural ambassador, sharing our own African stories and narratives (with the world). This year, we will begin the first of a 3-year partnership with WorldPress Photo, the world’s largest and most prestigious annual press photography awards competition. The WorldPress Photo exhibition will be showcased during the LagosPhoto Festival in October. We have our work cut out for us but each year the festival grows and its presence continues to reverberate around the world.

the day, it simply makes me happy. It’s an incredible experience to witness talent and discover the personalities and stories behind that talent. Which do you find more exciting, arts or entertainment? In my own world, I have been able to blend both and make them fun. Good entertainment is often artistic and good art is often entertaining. When you see the work created by finalists of the Natioanl Art Competition and their individual interpretations of the yearly theme, there is no way you can’t help but be entertained by the thought process that goes into creating such master pieces of art. Photographers are some of the most entertaining characters I have ever met. Their determination to document a story through their lenses, the journey to document that story and the documented story itself are always enough material for two seasons of a reality show. LagosPhoto has definitely been one of the most visually beautiful projects I’ve worked on and it’s entertaining in the sense that it incorporates world class events such as its yearly photo auctions and festival grand openings. How do you relate with your co-directors? Being the only female, are you intimidated or you feel like the mother hen? On the contrary, gender representation is very balanced at the African Artists Foundation. In fact, women hold some of the highest roles in the foundation

The arts competition will soon start, what role will you be playing in the planning,, colation and execution of that one? My goal is to make the winners of the National Art Competition house hold names here and abroad. It is important we celebrate our artists and the value the profession continues to bring to the world. I want the public to be able to identify the finalists and follow their careers as they continue to gain international recognition. It’s a win-win for the artists and Nigeria, we need more cultural ambassadors with meaningful stories to tell. What do you find most exciting or gratifying about this job? The most exciting part of my job is there is no normal day. Everyday brings a new and colourful adventure, a new character and a new story with things that need to be handled, discussed and executed. Working in the arts does not typically lend itself to a traditional lifestyle and I quite enjoy that as well. But most importantly the most gratifying part of my job is the contribution our programs have in the Nigerian art community. What do you do for relaxation and enjoyment? When I’m in Lagos it’s hard not to be busy. I co-host Glamsquad, a fashion police show on Silverbird and we usually shoot on weekends. Otherwise, I’m quite predictable, everybody has their local, mine is Bogobiri otherwise I’m usually hanging with my coworkers which is odd because I see them all day anyway. I also started a Women’s Film Club where we screen independent films once a month here in Lagos. CREDITS:

WunikA’s bluE drEss: TRish O COuTuRe WunikA’s brAcElEts: Le Reve PieCes WunikA’s EArrinGs And rinG: La Bennis WunikA’s rEd shOEs: shOe LOunge

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TwenTy T FOUR hrs Ty

by - Jemi Ekunkunbor Good looking Bank W, was born OlubankoleWellington to Nigerian parents in the United States of America. Since returning home to pursue a career in music, the musician with a sultry voice, has clearly established himself as a master in the R&B genre. For his effort in music, his awards and nominations are legion. His first effort, Undeniable in 2003, earned him the 2003 R&B/Soul Artist of the Year at the Urban Independent Music Awards. Since then, several other awards have followed. In 2006 alone, he won the John Lennon Song Writing Award 2006, R&B Category, for ‘My Regret’ and also emerged Best R&B Artiste, Nigerian Entertainment Awards. That same year, in the USA, the stylish artiste who has made the fedora hat his signature style, was the Best Male R&B Artiste courtesy, Urban Independent Music Awards. The R&B crooner, fondly called Mr. Capable, spoke to Allure on what his typical day is like. Enjoy it!

“A typical day in my life starts from when I wake up. First, I try to say a little prayer to get my day started. Then I go out to work out with my trainer Uzi. He is the younger brother of Ikechukwu. He is an amazing physical trainer. He tries to get me into shape so that I can look like Peter from P-quare. After my training, I come home, shower and dress for work. When dressing for work, the number one consideration for me is comfort. I like to be comfortable so even if I am wearing a suit, it has to fit properly. I wear a lot of traditional outfits these days because they are comfortable. Other than comfort, you should dress how you want to present yourself and how you want people to perceive you. If you come out looking like a bum, then people will react to you in a certain way. So, the key for me is comfort. Then I try to eat a healthy meal. For breakfast, I

BANKY W

can eat whatever I like. I like chicken a lot especially, chicken breasts. I also like some sea foods just a little bit. It could be shrimps or whatever. After breakfast, my day becomes fast paced but each day varies depending on the things I have to do for that day. I could be in the studio or have an interview with the press or have a meeting with people trying to negotiate deals for the label. I could also have an event where I am performing or speaking. Depending on the day, generally, that is how I work. I have an office but I don’t go there every day depending on what I have to do. If I have a meeting to attend in the office, then I go there otherwise, I could be at home and work from there. At work, I oversee the musical side of the artists. It is either I work in the studio or we oversee their careers in terms of positioning our artists, working with different corporate clients to see how we can perform at different platform or liaise with different companies to find a cross marketing like me and Samsung or Wizkid and Pepsi. So we do a lot • BANKY W of strategic thinking and planning, and negotiations in this regard. Like I said earlier, it all depends on the day. For example, there are events you attend where you have to attend an after-party or you just feel like letting loose a little bit and hang out with my people. Events like that, could keep me out a little bit. The least favourite aspect of my job is when I have to do photo-shoots. I hate photo-shoots. I love video shoots because it seems that I am playing a role in a short movie. Photo-shoots I hate like I hate taking pictures at events. I find it really annoying because you stand there and you are expected to strike poses and do all the random things you do when doing a photo-shoot. Even though I don’t like it, I have to do it because obviously, I need pictures for my CD covers and interviews. I don’t enjoy it at all. So I try to limit them. I really shouldn’t be saying this because my manager will be upset with me. I only do photo-shoots when I have a new album coming out. So, when I do that shoot, I try to take as many different pictures as I can so that they will leave me alone at least for the next two years. But they are necessary, because people need to see you and connect with your image as well. So it is a necessary evil. So that is the least favourite aspect of my work’’. June 30, 2013 /

FEA T UR E

Get Captivated by - Jerome Onipede CONTINUED FROM LAST WEEK...

IN THE STORY OF YOUR LIFE, LET GOD REMAIN THE STAR!

Why can’t you be one of the first set of people to pay? Why must you always struggle to get your school fees paid?” Now, because you do not address that thought immediately by rejecting it, it festers and starts to steal your joy away. In the aftermath of your younger sister’s successful wedding ceremony, satan may put a thought in you like: “Shouldn’t it be you that everyone is celebrating with right now?” If you do not reject it and declare the goodness of God over your life, that diabolical thought festers and turns your joy into sadness. After speaking to a counsellor, while you and your wife are so excited because of fresh hope for a wonderful marriage, satan may come with a thought like: “But did you guys have to come this far to find out that you were meant for each other? What’s new that the counsellor told you that you didn’t know before; except that your wife is a stubborn goat?” At that moment, if you do not take the ground by speaking the word like; “God orders the steps of the righteous”, your joy will gradually turn to sadness so

that you can no longer practice the new principles you have been taught for a wonderful marriage. After a terrible career setback and you are now enjoying a comeback, satan may sow a thought like: “Can you imagine where you would have been by now if you didn’t have a setback at all?” Again, because you didn’t address that thought immediately and say “I praise God for where I am now”, your excitement may be turned to sadness in a moment. After your promotion at work, despite not having formal academic training in a college, in your excitement, satan says: “Now that you have this, can you imagine what else you would have had if you went to school at all?” Now, if you do not answer immediately that “Promotion does not come from the east or west, or south but God is the Judge. He lifts up one and puts down another,” satan may turn your joy into sadness.

ESCAPADES of

Style

THE FORTIETH BIRTHDAY PARTY - PART 1

We have a new normal. Every ‘society’ woman turning forty, fifty, heck even sixty, throws a massive party to ‘celebrate this achievement’. They used to be one day events but with the cut-throat competitiveness of women in this cadre (a cadre of whom many are my friends, so I know about, lol!), they now come with much more fanfare! They used to be single events, characterized by being held in exotic locations with lots of people, food and music. Now, they’ve interestingly ‘evolved’ into one-week wonders, starting the preceding Sunday with church service, then ‘charitable events’ during the week (these are the usual visits to motherless babies’ homes – with lots of pictures taken to show the ‘philanthropy’ and ‘good heart’ of the celebrant, etc). Heck, she may even throw in a fashion event in her own honour! However you choose to view her, spend-thrift, fake, or celebrity-seeking desperado, this type of

/ June 30, 2013

After your crisis-laden pregnancy which you survived through God’s intervention (orchestrating events that still got you to the top), satan may sow a thought in you like: “What’s the point having all this in your life and you have no man to marry you?” If you do not maintain your ground of victory by declaring that “what eyes have not seen, ears have not heard or what has not yet entered into the hearts of any man are the things that God has yet prepared for you, because you love Him”, the enemy of your soul will take the ground of joy from you and turn it into sadness. Whenever we are baptized with joy because of victory we are experiencing, one of the ways to celebrate that is to always remember that we are not the star at the moment, but God is. We must always remember that in the story of our life, we will never be the star; God will always be. God will use our victories, delays, joys, sadness, peace, anxiety, depression, discouragement to still bring us to an expected end. There are lots of things happening to you right now that you may not understand but rather than have your mind stay on things that you don’t understand, let your mind stay on God and He will keep you in perfect peace. The one who wrote the story of your life is not against you but for you; just know that no one can be against you and succeed. The next time you are celebrating (which should be now) and a strange thought crosses your mind, don’t say “it’s just a thought” and ignore it. Always remember that that subtle thought is a seed of destruction aimed at turning your joy into sadness. And there is nothing that satan loves as much as you having every reason to be happy and yet remain sad. You can change that today by saying: “I rebuke you in Jesus’ Name” to that awful thought that has come to steal, to kill and to destroy your joy; knowing that Jesus wants to give you life in abundance. Counseling inquiries on Marriage, Relationships, Career and Matchmaking >> @jeromeistalking on Twitter. “Like” Jerome Yaovi Onipede on Facebook.

woman rocks in her own way! Let’s face it, they make the environment more interesting; for after all, we can’t all be conservative... My opinion! Against this backdrop of fact and opinion, I attended a friend’s fortieth that was themed ‘As Glam As You Can Make It!’ (I’ve changed the words around for discretion, of course, lol). Cissy, as I will call her, (not her real name) and I attended the same fantastic secondary school, the International School, Ibadan (ISI) in Oyo State (which, by the way, celebrates 50 years of existence this year, but that’s another story for another day) and had most parts of what we could history together as a result of this. She was several years my senior in school but we became good friends anyway. Similar friends, parents who were friends, we shared many growing up pains together; attended different universities but kept in touch. She got married to Femi, her childhood sweet heart who ventured into telecoms when it was hot, snagged a top appointment in one of the big companies and bang! became super-rich within a really short time. Cissy kept up with the game - we’d all had glamour and intelligence in our DNA at ISI - and did Femi proud by easily stealing the show at official events and other parties they attended together. Her sense of style is considerable and she expresses this without restraint or reverence! Anyway, her 40th came up and she’d called up several of us, her old school mates, to inform us and ask us to ‘support’ her at the events she was putting in place to ‘celebrate this major milestone’. We agreed and she promptly placed us as committee heads. I was asked by her to kindly lead the Style and Decor Committee and wildly amused by the whole committee concept, I’d grudgingly agreed. Actually, she didn’t give us much choice! Wondering how on earth I was going to juggle this ridiculous role with my very busy work schedule and precious family time, I’d resolved to delegate as much of the work involved in it as possible to my P.A., Jennifer. Jennifer, though a bit naive, has some style and more importantly, was near perfect in interpreting my instructions and following them the way I wanted. We were required to oversee the aso ebi and venue decorations for each of the events, which, by the way, included an array that was Sunday church service, a seminar for women the Tuesday after, Wednesday was planned to be a fashion show by a protégé new designer of the celebrant’s, Friday – an evening of poetry with her close friends and then, Saturday was the major shindig. Goodness! Now, you all know what I was facing… Feedback to escapadesofstyle gmail.com

...secret diary of a fashionista...

F EA T U R E

KATHY EMIKO

BodyPerfect not just slimming but fitness

WHY YOU NEED TO DETOX If you often feel rundown – two much caffeinated soft drink could be to blame – too much caffeinated soft drink can trigger muscle weakness and fatigue because of the high amount of glucose and fructose which depletes the body’s level of potassium, a mineral that essential for proper muscle function.

10 REASONS TO DETOX CONTD: 4. You’ll get fever colds: When you do a proper detox, minor infections such as colds, sore throats and flu are less likely. Fruits and vegetables are the best ways to get high levels of vitamin C, beta carotene and other antioxidants in your diet, and research shows that people with high intakes of these nutrients have fewer sick days than others. 5. You’ll get rid of bloating: Swallowing too much air and eating in a rush are the most common causes of bloating. During a detox, it is essential that you learn to take your time and sit down to eat. Chewing thoroughly and eating slowing will help reduce the amount of air swallowed with food. Also avoid fizzy drinks as they introduce more unwanted air. Try plan water and drinks. Bloating is sometimes a reaction to certain foods. Cutting out or reducing common culprits such as yeast, wheat products, bran cereals or vegetable from the Brassica family (e.g. cabbage, broccoli or cauliflower) may help.

6. You can lower your blood pressure: Eating more fruit and vegetables can lower blood pressure. This is due to the high content of potassium, which helps regulate the body’s fluid balance. An Italian study found that 81 percent of people with high blood pressure who started eating six servings of fruit and vegetables a day reduced their medication by half. 7. Your skin will look smoother: Eating more fruit and vegetables – reducing the toxin load on your body – improves the clarity and texture of your skin. Your skin plays a vital role in ridding your body of unwanted substances and waste products (via sweating, skin oils and dead skin cells). According to an Australian study, people

HEALTH

News101

Get the balance right: you don’t eat 100% alkaline foods to achieve an optimum health. Some slightly acidic foods like certain grains, beans and nuts) are necessary for proper nutrition. It’s the highly acidic foods that you need to cut out drastically, while boosting your intake of alkaline options. AWESOMELY ALKALINE: Dark leafy greens, wheatgrass, almonds, avocados, millet, lemons, grape fruits, seaweed, lentils and many other beans. BAD ACID: Refined sugar and grains, coffee, soda (soft drink) meat, cheese, alcohol and heavily processed food.

olish fessional Professional THE

Dear Kathy, This is just an appreciation. The hardest thing for me to give up was my soft drink, I was addicted; that was before I did your 7 days detox; but after the detox, I feel wonderful, the craving is gone and I lost almost 4kg; my skin is amazing – I am so happy; I thought I couldn’t leave without my regular soda, but now oolong tea has replaced my soda for good. Thanks to Sunday Allure Vanguard Pullout. - Maria, Abuja

Princess Kathy is a certified nutrition and fitness consultant. Email: bodyperfectng@aol. com | BB: 28356028

getting out of hand and should be checked. A big argument ensued with the personnel manager threatening that if Mr. Adebowale is once more allowed to have his way, the rest of the staff should also be entitled to such a privilege. Dear readers, with reference to our column USING THE POLISH EDGE, kindly respond by letting us know:

USING THE POLISH EDGE During one of their management meetings, a debate arose on which department of the company needed training in the first quarter of the year. Mr. Adebowale, the Client Relationship Advisor (CRA) insisted (as he is known to do over time) that his department needed the training before any other department as it was the main interface between the company and its clients. He also argued that he was the oldest amongst the staff so he and his subordinates should be granted the respect of being the first to be trained. The general manager (GM) however, felt that the CRA’s attitude of insisting on having his way in

y h t a K s s e K c S n A Pri

almost every activity and decision as well as his distorted mind-set that age is a weapon he could wield anytime to have his way in the company is

by - Chioma Okoye

Mallam Danjuma Ali, CEO of McLurren Chambers Nigeria Limited, incorporated in Nigeria as providers of legal advisory services to other enterprises, has made a commitment to bring in subject matter experts in various functional areas to train staff of the company periodically. The general manager of the company is Ibo, 34 years old and very firm in his administrative duties. The personnel manager is Urhobo, an ethnic minority in South-South Nigeria. The client relationship advisor is Yoruba, 42 years of age, huge in size with well-rounded and protruding stomach, which gives his over-bearing attitude an edge.

with high diets in fresh produce had smoother and less lined skin than those eating diets high in red meat and sugar. 8. Your hair will shine: The vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients in fruits and vegetables do wonder for your skin, hair and nails. A healthy diet trackles beauty problems from the inside, improving the rate of hair growth, cell renewal and collagen formation. 9. You’ll enjoy better health: Numerous studies have linked a diet rich in fruit and vegetables with a lower risk of sickness and diseases. According to the American institute for cancer Research, eating at least five servings of fruit and vegetable each day could prevent at least 20 percent of cancer cases. Research from Kings College London found that people who eat at least two apples a week are up to 32 percent less likely to develop asthma than people who eat fewer apples. And a university of survey study found that people who eat the most fruit and vegetables have stronger bones. 10. You’ll be claimer: Studies show that people whose diets are high in fruit and vegetables which are the main foods during a detox find it easier to handle stress.

a. What you can deduce as the problem at McLurren Chambers? b. Why do you think that is the problem? c. What solutions would proffer or what advice would you give to help McLurren out of this situation? • BUSINESS MEETING

Send your response to: cokoye@ diamondschoolofprotocol.com

Chioma E. Okoye is a Corporate Etiquette expert; she is the Principal of the Diamond School of International protocol & Etiquette. She studied International Protocol & Etiquette at the Institut Villa Pierrefeu Switzerland and is Professional Etiquette Certified (PEC) by Charleston School of Protocol and Etiquette Incorporated, United States of America. She worked as a Managing Partner at Lean Sigma Concept for several years (a Management/ Consulting Firm), and was a Managing Partner at Lyndon Cooper (an event consulting firm) before founding Diamond School of International Protocol & Etiquette. She is also a founding team member of John Maxwell group and a certified leadership Coach. June 30, 2013 /

H EALT H

HEALTHY LIVING101 by - Teri Mendes

Did you

KNOW?

Flabby Arms? Quick Strength Training Exercises

A goldfish has a memory span of three seconds.

Dear readers, trust you all had a great week! Today’s edition is a famous one that every woman deals with - Flabby arms!! Getting rid of arm flab is a two-part process: You need to reduce the fat that sits on top of your muscles by burning more calories than you eat. At the same time, you need to tone the muscle underneath the fat. Flabby arms occur when excess fat or loose skin forms in the upper arm, and this problem can be alleviated by strengthening your triceps, the muscles located at the back of your upper arm. Fortunately, there are several strength training exercises that do this. These exercises can quickly alleviate the problem of flabby arms by strengthening your biceps and triceps. An important reminder when you start strength training is to start slow. You will not be able to lift a lot of weight or do many repetitions right away. In addition, you can easily injure yourself by trying to do too much. However, over time, your body will get stronger. Another reminder is to stay patient. The results you may desire will not come overnight. But, if you stick to a good regime, you will soon get the look you’re after.

4. DIPs

To start, sit on the edge of a chair or low table. Place your feet flat on the ground and your hands on the surface you are sitting on. Slowly lower your body to the ground, until your arm is bent at a 90 degree angle. Then, raise yourself up by pushing against the surface. You will be able to feel your triceps supporting you. Repeat this motion ten times for three sets.

UPPER POSITION

1. DIamonD PusH-uPs While in a regular pushup position, put your hands together so that your thumbs and index fingers are touching. It should form a diamond shape in between your hands. Doing a pushup this way will put more stress on your triceps and better help strengthen the muscle. If you are unable to do regular pushups, rest on your knees instead of your toes. Try to complete three sets of ten or as many as you can do. You will be able to do more as you get stronger.

LOWER POSITION

5. KIcKbacKs

2. TRIcEPs ExTEnsIons While sitting or standing, take a dumbbell in one hand and raise it straight over your head. Lower your arm until your elbow forms a 90 degree angle and the weight is behind your head. Then, extend your arm back over your head and repeat this motion. Make sure not to arch your back and start with a weight light enough to control your movement. Do three sets of 10 to 15 repetitions of this exercise.

3. TRIcEPs PREss • DIAMOND PUSH-UP POSITION • HAND POSITION

This is a similar exercise to extensions, except that you are lying down. Lie on a bench holding a weight in each hand. Raise your arms straight up bending your elbow so that the weights are next to your head. Extend the weight straight up into the air 10 to 15 times for three sets.

Hold a dumbbell in each of your hands and bend at your waist so that your torso is parallel to the ground. Keep your upper arm next to your torso, while bending your elbow at a 90 degree. Then, straighten your arm so the weight is near your hip. Repeat this motion 10 to 15 times for three sets. That’s it for today my dear readers. I hope you were able to try some of these tips let me know how you get on; I know many readers were eager to read this piece I hope it was worth the wait!

For comments and questions please email terimendes@gmail. com, @terimendes. I would love to hear from you, till next week. - it’s ta ta for now! XOXO

TERI Speaks Good afternoon, Hope u had a good day. I like reading your columns in Sunday Vanguard newspapers. Please I want to know if Margarine is different from Butter? Secondly, could you please tell me where I can buy a bag of brown rice. I also want to know where I can get Ofada rice (bag) that is sand and chaff-free. God bless you real good. Victor

/ June 30, 2013

Dear Victor, Simply put, Butter is made from cream, margarine is hydrogenated vegetable oil.Brown rice and Ofada rice are readily available and now come in packs like Uncle Ben’s rice. In Lagos, Park and shop, Ebeano Supermarket as well as Sura shopping mall all sell Ofada Rice. If in Abuja, try Amigos Supermanrket or Grand Square. TM.

PEO PL E

“ O N E PA RT Y AT A T I M E ! ”

Inspiration at its peak! House Of Tara Launches 100 Voices’ Book By - Oscar Ochiogu The House of Tara International, during the week, launched ‘ House Of Tara....100 Voices’ an inspirational book on 100 men and women ,who achieved success at House of Tara . The exclusive event held last Tuesday, at the Sheraton Four Points Hotel. Mrs. Ibukun Awosika in her opening remarks said, “this book is to inspire young Africans to use the stories of these 100 to Challenge others to find a way to inspire people” The foreword for the book was written by former World Bank Vice President, African Division, Dr Oby Ezekwesili. The book is a moving and emotional account of 100 men and women who have flourished as they worked as House of Tara Make up Representative. Here are pictures of some guests at the event.

Fela Durotoye

Tara Durotoye

Nnenna Onyewuchi

Ifechukwu Onyeka

Bola Balogun

Sharon Ezeamaka

tosyn bucknor

Nneka Jibunoh

Abolade Durojaiye

tekena koko

ufuoma ejenobor

Anita Adegoke

Bukky George and Nimi Akinkugbe

Ida Iwugo

Sade Ajayi and Rume Onosode

yemisi and funke bucknor

Bisola Edun

Anurukem Funke

Aderonke Adebanjo

Bukky Ogunjobi

temi akingbe and omotola

Abimbola

Natasha Malize and Chizor Malize

June 30, 2013 /