CORA stands as a protector of artistic expression, cultural heritage, and the rights of artists. The Eye symbolises guardianship—watching over the nation’s creative legacy while defending the freedom necessary for artistic innovation and growth.
CORA is an active agent of transformation. It advocates for policies, partnerships, and initiatives that strengthen Nigeria’s creative ecosystem and ensure that the arts remain relevant to contemporary social, economic, and cultural realities.
CORA is a visionary and advocacy-driven Arts & cultural organisation committed to watching, interrogating, protecting, and advancing the arts and culture sector in Nigeria. Through critical engagement, public discourse, policy advocacy, and creative leadership, CORA serves as the vigilant eye of the cultural community—seeing beyond the present, safeguarding artistic freedom, and championing a vibrant future for Nigerian arts and culture.”
The Eye, as its symbol, embodies the core values and responsibilities of the organisation in the following ways:
1. A Watchdog for the Arts
CORA serves as a vigilant observer of the cultural landscape, monitoring policies, institutions, funding structures, and developments that affect artists and the creative sector. The Eye symbolises accountability and the commitment to ensuring that the arts receive the attention and support they deserve.
2. A Visionary Force
The Eye reflects foresight and imagination. CORA seeks to envision a stronger future for Nigerian arts and culture by promoting innovative ideas, progressive cultural policies, and sustainable structures that empower artists and creative communities.
3. A Voice for Awareness and Cultural Consciousness
CORA encourages society to recognize the value of the arts as a catalyst for national development. Through advocacy, public engagement, and critical discourse, the organisation raises awareness about the challenges and opportunities within the cultural sector.
4. A Platform for Critical Thinking and Intellectual Engagement
The Eye represents insight, inquiry, and the ability to perceive deeper realities. CORA provides a space for debate, critique, research, and thoughtful engagement on issues affecting arts, culture, and society. It challenges assumptions and encourages informed dialogue.
5. A Guardian of Creative Freedom and Cultural Heritage
CORA stands as a protector of artistic expression, cultural heritage, and the rights of artists. The Eye symbolises guardianship—watching over the nation’s creative legacy while defending the freedom necessary for artistic innovation and growth.
6. A Catalyst for Change
More than an observer, CORA is an active agent of transformation. It advocates for policies, partnerships, and initiatives that strengthen Nigeria’s creative ecosystem and ensure that the arts remain relevant to contemporary social, economic, and cultural realities.
- Pastor Lanipekun, painter, visual arts teacher, is one of the founders of CORA
