The Origin and Development of Formal Art Schools in Nigeria

Abstract

The paper traces the origin and development of art study in the institutions of higher learning in Nigeria. The British Colonial Government in the country was not keen at investing on higher education. They feared that increase in knowledge through higher education might intensify the already tensed political agitation for self rule in the country. Therefore, Nigerians were only left with the difficult task of travelling abroad to acquire higher education. This was also the plight of the pioneer College and University trained Nigerian artists. This paper investigates the eventual establishment of Art Departments in the first higher Institution built by the colonial masters in Nigeria. It traces the growth and transformation of the pioneer higher institution into the power house of art education in the country. It also looks at the subsequent establishment of many other art departments in the institutions of higher learning in post independence Nigeria. It looks at the changes over time in the course content of these art departments which today are completely indigenous. Finally, it concludes with an update of Nigerian Universities, Polytechnics and Colleges of Education that offer art in their programmes. Key Words: British, Art, Committee, College, University, Polytechnics.