Towards an Architectural Identity: Learning from the Communication Method of Contemporary Nigerian Art

Abstract

In a period such as now where there is a rapid rate of urbanization into different cultures, cultural identity is under the threat of being erased in the process. However, if architecture is for people, then it should be able to reflect, respect, as well as protect society’s respective identities. The Nigerian society being a culturally diverse one would greatly be affected by this change, but this paper seeks to redress that by providing solutions learnt from Contemporary Art in Nigeria. A study on prominent Contemporary artists in Nigeria reveals their use of culture as a strong design lexicon – a method used to effectively communicate the messages in their works. How would this change the way architecture is practiced and perceived? The theory that declares art and architecture as having interdisciplinary connections is the foundation upon which this paper stands, which also allows the researcher to relate certain principles from contemporary Nigerian art into how architecture is created. However, the line that separates art and architecture becomes visible when it comes to aspects such as freedom of expression, finance as well as creativity. In addition to this, the architect’s training develops him more rationally than expressively and vice versa for the artist. Therefore, it is rare to have an architect or an artist who spontaneously taps into both sides of the brain. However, this possibility could exist if the architect embraces the artist as a comrade-in-arms, in the art of designing buildings. This fusion would undoubtedly strengthen the diversity in terms of architecture within the country and would bring about the creation of buildings that Nigerians can relate with.