The Women and Youth Art Foundation (Wy Art) was proudly established in December 1994 as a nonprofit organization. It was founded on the premises of the University of Ibadan in Nigeria. The Foundation is dedicated to imparting various arts and crafts skills in underserved communities nationwide. Its mission is to teach women, recognizing their crucial role in homebuilding and teaching skills to their children. Over the past three decades, we have witnessed remarkable transformations in the lives of our beneficiaries. Our outreach extends to diverse groups, including the unemployed, low-income workers, individuals living with disabilities, widows, and youth, reflecting our deep commitment to inclusivity and equal opportunity. From establishing cottage industries to becoming successful entrepreneurs, our programs have empowered individuals to thrive creatively and economically.

It is an artist-led organization nonprofit known colloquially as Wy Art. The Foundation has conducted numerous art workshops throughout Nigeria, pioneering eLearning materials comprising 10 DVDs founded in 1998. These became the first of their kind in Nigeria to teach indigenous craft practices nationwide. The Foundation leveraged the vibrant home video culture and flourished at a time when digital platforms for learning were less prevalent. Over 300,000 copies were distributed across Nigeria and other parts of the continent in the first seven years.

Throughout our journey, we have received support from various individuals and institutions. Notable contributions include the US State Department SmARTpower grant 2012, which funded the incredible work of Berkeley-based artist Brett Cook. He conducted collaborative workshops in Lagos and Ibadan led by the Wy Art Foundation in collaboration with the Bronx Museum of Art, NY. The iconic mural at the University of Lagos is a testament to the power of such artistic collaborations. Cook also conducted art workshops with students at All Saints College, Ibadan. At the close of the event, the American Ambassador, His Excellency Terence Mculley, visited the venue of the mural along with notable members of staff of the University of Lagos management.

The US Consulate Lagos grant 2017 was a significant milestone in our journey, supporting our community engagement with public High schools in Lagos State. Over one thousand students participated in these yearlong workshops on textile, ceramic, macrame, coconut carving, and general crafts. A year later, we received the US Alumni Exchange Award for this community project in schools, a testament to the impact and success of our initiatives in fostering creativity, skill development, and economic independence in underserved communities.

The British Council SSA grant 2021/2022, which we also received, enhanced the development of artisanal skills and craftsmanship amongst textile designers. It also funded a webinar titled Telling Textile Tales, which brought artists, designers, and fashion icons to discuss textile production from their perspectives. 

In 2021, the Renowned French fashion Label Louis Vuitton listed the Wy Art Foundation as one of Africa's most impactful artist-led centers.

We will continue to serve our community, which is enriched by this service!