The Nigerian Visual Art Critics: Watchdogs or Pets?

Abstract

Art critics and criticism are crucial to the growth of art practice. They serve as chaperons to art through the feedback they give on the practice, trend and quality of artworks. The art critic has been described in many ways, with his role being seen as complementary to the development of art. Unfortunately, professional criticism, the type that moulds and goads art practice to attaining the loftiest height possible, is not widespread in Nigeria. Praise singing and vilification are in many cases bandied as art criticism. This paper examines the art critic and criticism in Nigeria, identifies the causes of the low number and quality of art critics and their unprofessional practices. It proffers recommendations on how art critics and criticism can be improved.