October Rain… Society of Nigerian Arts, SNA, honours Okundaye, Osinowo, Elaiho, Oct 4 & Dec 2025

This year’s October Rain will be uniquely staged across three galleries between October 4th and December 2025, opening on different dates to the general public. The spread across these spaces reflects the expansive legacies of the honourees, artists whose influence cannot be contained within a single room, but who belong to the nation and the world at large

As we celebrate these “Living Legends” of Nigerian art, we are reminded of the importance of honouring our own while they are still with us. Their lives, their art, and their service to humanity inspire us to preserve, innovate, and pass on a legacy of creativity to the next generation

THE Society of Nigerian Artists (SNA), Lagos State Chapter, is honoured to present the 2025 edition of the October Rain Annual Exhibition.

This year’s celebration is deeply significant, for it brings to the fore the lives and legacies of three of our most revered members, Dr Kolade Oshinowo, Elder Jerome Ikponmwoghodua Elaiho, and Chief (Mrs.) Nike Davies-Okundaye, alongside three distinguished patrons of the arts in Lagos. Collectively, they represent the pillars of Nigeria’s creative heritage, whose works, sacrifices, and vision have shaped the very foundation of our artistic identity.
Each of these legends embodies an extraordinary journey.

Dr Kolade Oshinowo, fondly known as the “Teacher of Teachers” and “Master of the Masters”, has dedicated his career to painting and pedagogy. His mastery of colour, form, and social commentary has placed him at the centre of Nigeria’s contemporary art history. His legacy extends beyond the canvas to the countless artists he nurtured as a lecturer at Yaba College of Technology, many of whom now form the backbone of our thriving art ecosystem. His generosity of spirit and devotion to cultural identity inspire the theme MINDSCAPES, chosen for his celebration at Iwalewa Gallery, Lekki Phase I.

Elder Jerome Ikponmwoghodua Elaiho, born in 1941, stands as a pioneer whose contributions cut across visual art, graphic design, advertising, and media. His story is that of resilience and innovation, bridging tradition and modernity while embracing new technologies across decades. As founder of Jerome Elaiho and Associates and as a lifelong mentor within the Society of Nigerian Artists, his work continues to exemplify the enduring value of versatility and mentorship. To honour his openness to change and his embrace of technology in the creative process, the theme TECHGRITUDE has been chosen for his celebration at Quintessence Gallery, Ikoyi.

Chief (Mrs.) Nike Davies-Okundaye, popularly known as “Mama Nike”, is a living embodiment of cultural preservation and global artistic influence. Through her mastery of textile art and her establishment of the Nike Art Galleries and the Nike Centre for Art and Culture, she has empowered thousands of young Nigerians, especially women, while bringing indigenous traditions such as Adire to international prominence. Her life’s work is a shining testament to creativity, hospitality, and philanthropy. For her celebration, the
The theme ECHOES OF EXCELLENCE has been chosen at Gemini Art Gallery, Obalende.
This year’s October Rain will be uniquely staged across three galleries between October 4th and December 2025, opening on different dates to the general public. The spread across these spaces reflects the expansive legacies of the honourees, artists whose influence cannot be contained within a single room, but who belong to the nation and the world at large.
As we celebrate these “Living Legends” of Nigerian art, we are reminded of the importance of honouring our own while they are still with us. Their lives, their art, and their service to humanity inspire us to preserve, innovate, and pass on a legacy of creativity to the next generation.
On behalf of the Lagos State Executive Council of the Society of Nigerian Artists, I welcome you all to the 2025 October Rain Annual Exhibition. Together, let us celebrate the Legacies of Our Living Legends While They Are Still With Us.
Thank you.
Kolawole K. Olojo-Kosoko
Chairman SNA Lagos 2025
Department of Art and Industrial Design
Lagos State University of Science and Technology,
Ikorodu, Lagos.