BY NGOZI ONYEAKUSI

emPLE (formerly Old Mutual), Africa’s newly rebranded financial services provider, is thrilled to announce its official sponsorship of ART X Lagos 2024, the continent’s premier contemporary art fair. This partnership positions emPLE as not just a financial institution but a key advocate for the creative economy. Through our involvement, emPLE aims to protect artistic value, and demonstrate unwavering support for Africa’s burgeoning art ecosystem.

At the heart of this partnership is our sponsorship of the exhibition, “Social Fabrics, Sustainable Threads,” a remarkable project by Nigerian artist Marcellina Akpojotor. Akpojotor uses discarded Ankara wax fabrics to create vibrant, intricate artworks, tackling a critical environmental issue: Lagos produces between 100 and 1,000 metric tons of textile waste daily. Globally, over 60 billion kilograms of textiles and footwear are burned or landfilled yearly. Her work transforms these discarded materials into stories of culture and sustainability, embodying a circular approach that aligns with emPLE’s vision of lasting value.

By supporting this project, emPLE highlights its commitment to environmental stewardship, cultural preservation, and social empowerment, ensuring that creativity not only thrives but also contributes to sustainable change. This initiative reflects our belief that art is more than an expression—it is a driver of innovation and social progress.

Our insurance solution offers comprehensive protection for galleries, artists, and collectors, mitigating risks such as theft, accidental damage, and fire. In an art market increasingly recognized as a viable investment space, our product ensures that those who collect, create, or art trade can do so confidently, knowing their assets are protected.

As a newly repositioned brand, emPLE aims to embed itself into Africa’s cultural fabric, forging meaningful connections with creators, investors, and art enthusiasts. ART X Lagos 2024 provides a strategic platform for emPLE to engage with key stakeholders in the art world, from collectors and curators to influential galleries and patrons. Through engagement at the fair, we will showcase the full scope of our financial services, raising awareness of emPLE as a new leader in the art insurance space.

Our participation is more than a sponsorship—it is an investment in the future of African art. With curated experiences and on-site interactions, emPLE is here to educate stakeholders on the value of protecting creative assets and demonstrate how financial innovation can support the arts.