PHOTO NEWS: Halal Art Gallery’s Three-Day Islamic Art Showcase in Kano

By Abdullahi Yusuf

Halal Art Gallery’s Alhamdulillah Goma-Goma: The Art of Gratitude III brought together artists, cultural institutions, Islamic finance representatives and other guests for a three-day exhibition at Fatima Hall, Grand Central Hotel, Kano, from October 18 to 20, 2026. Organised in collaboration with the Kano State Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the International Institute of Islamic Banking and Finance (IIIBF), Bayero University Kano and the National Gallery of Art, the exhibition showcased Arabic calligraphy, painting, woodwork, leather art and mixed-media compositions inspired by Islamic values, gratitude and cultural identity.

Former Kano State Governor, Senator Ibrahim Shekarau, who chaired the opening ceremony, described the exhibition as a “wonderful foresight” and a contribution towards inspiring young people and the Muslim community through artistic expression informed by Islamic principles. The opening brought together participating artists from Kano, Lagos and Abuja, alongside cultural stakeholders and representatives of partner institutions.

On the second day, students from various schools visited the exhibition on an educational excursion to explore the displayed artworks, attend lectures and observe practical demonstrations of artistic techniques. They also interacted directly with participating artists, gaining first-hand insight into the creative processes behind the works.

The closing day provided an opportunity for corporate organisations, partners and invited guests to network around Islamic art and the creative economy. Representatives of Islamic financial institutions, including Lotus Bank, Jaiz Bank and TAJBank, were among those invited. Other guests included Mallam Auwalu Abubakar, Director of Administration and General Services at the Kano State Ministry of Culture and Tourism, representing Commissioner Hajiya Aisha Lawan Saji; Dr Sule Musa, former Provost of Sa’adatu Rimi College of Education, Kano; Hajiya Binta Garba, Chairperson of the Society of Nigerian Artists, Kano State; Hajiya Karimatu Muhammad Inuwa, former head of the Kano State History and Culture Bureau; Mallam Abdullahi UBA of the Institute of Islamic Calligraphy and Geometric Design Gallery; and Mallam Hassan Gatawa, curator of the National Gallery of Art in Kano. Representatives of IIIBF and IFING Media also participated in the programme.

At the close of the exhibition, Mallam Auwalu Abubakar delivered a farewell message on behalf of the Kano State Ministry of Culture and Tourism, commending the initiative and wishing gallery founder Ridwan ADK-Osinowo and the participating artists continued success.

Scenes from the Exhibition: