There is a popular saying that states “A true artist is not inspired, but one who inspires others” Nma Art Gallery has and would continue to inspire people by creating a platform for original artworks, affordable art prints and unique custom products. Let’s read up on her story
Tell us about Yourself
I am Ugonma Chibuzo, a visual artist and designer based in Lagos Nigeria. I graduated from the University of Nigeria Nsukka with a BA in Fine and Applied Arts. My interest in art started at a young age and was inspired by my dad who encouraged my siblings and i to engage in creative activities during the holidays. I always loved the creative process and art’s way of helping to ease anxiety and put on a lighter mode. I equally have unexplored interests in music.
Though being introverted, I have learned to tailor my strengths to growing my business. I sort for Entrepreneurship and digital marketing certified training which have been of immense benefit in building myself as an Entrepreneur.
My works have been used for Credit Suisse Chinese New Year calendar for 2023 and have also been featured in the Purposeful maiyonaisse and mvibe magazines. In 2021, I won the Aya Artist competition by Ayacare, a premium period care brand and was commissioned to produce artworks for the package of their product which was a major milestone for me.
I want to be that person who inspires people to be their most authentic selves, and through the stories behind my art pieces, I want to inspire a positive change in people as well as an increased interest in art.
What does your business do and how it started
Nma Art Gallery provides a platform for original artworks, affordable art prints and unique custom products.
Through our online stores, you can get art prints and shop for your favourite designs on products, thereby making art more accessible and affordable.
Besides these, it is also of importance that art isn’t seen as a luxury only deemed for the rich. This helps in building a more art-conscious society. From wanting to find myself through art, the desire metamorphosed into wanting to inspire people through art.
How do you solve your customer’s challenge?
We provide artwork, affordable prints and customised products all in one place which gives our customers a hassle-free experience when purchasing items for their home decor. It also gives satisfaction to know that all these needs can be met with a single brand. Additionally, we provide quality products and hassle-free delivery you can trust.
Who are your ideal customers?
Our current target audience are private collectors and institutions. We also serve individuals wanting to give a unique touch to their everyday products.
Can you describe your typical day?
Most days are spent working in my studio. I also allot time on social media platforms for sharing content and engaging with others. I am privileged to have flexible work hours so the activities of my days can easily adapt to work demands.
How has being an entrepreneur affected your family life?
Generally being an artist usually has the likelihood to isolate one from some social life. I spend most of my time in my studio. However, I still relate considerably well with my family and haven’t been exposed to the pressures of building a home and career.
What motivates you?
I’m motivated by what I want to give through what I do and each time someone has in one way or another been influenced by my work, it always motivates me to do more. The art scene in Nigeria is gradually improving and I want to play a contributory role in its development. It’s the things I want to be and achieve that motivate me to keep going.
What is your greatest fear?
To be honest I don’t think I can say I have a greatest fear. My greatest regret would be not becoming who I am meant to be and knowing I want to have no regrets motivates me to work on realising my aspirations and being who I’m meant to be.
How do you define success?
I see success simply as becoming who you’re meant to be.
What is your favourite aspect of being an entrepreneur?
An important part of being an entrepreneur for me is that I get to give in the capacity I can and be of value to others doing something I’m passionate about.
If you had the chance to start your career over again, what would you do differently?
I think I’d rephrase this question in a way to refer to myself and I’d have told the younger me to not be in so much of a hurry to grow. I’d have taken the time to grow and invest in myself and structure my business instead of being in a hurry to put my business out there.
What would you say are the top three skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur?
Discipline, resilience, commitment
Who has been your greatest inspiration?
I am the kind of person who gets inspired by various people or for various reasons. I admire and try to emulate particular behaviours in people. I won’t say there has been a greatest inspiration but there have been several people who have greatly inspired me in various ways.
What advice would you give to people who want to become entrepreneurs?
I honestly have never really been that person who relies on facts or what is deemed possible. Entrepreneurship has been an intuitive process for me right from the start so the only advice I can ever give is to listen to your heart. If everything within you tells you go for it, then go. It all starts within you, you need to believe in yourself well enough to try and motivate yourself well enough to continue. If you think you can, you can! If you think you can’t, you’re right.
What is your favourite book?
When it comes to gaining business knowledge, I haven’t relied on books but rather my interactions with people and experience. I also mostly prefer audio to books. While I’m usually not the kind of person who has favourites or bests, I’d say I’m more inclined to spiritual books.
If you were to write a book about yourself, what would you name it?
Probably ‘Becoming’ 😂 if the title hadn’t already been taken. Alternatively, I’d say ‘Diary of a Quiet Girl’ .. as an introvert, there is still much I don’t express visibly and there are a lot of struggles for me trying to build myself, and be an entrepreneur. Personally, I feel this struggle to show yourself is a lot harder for the introvert and I’d like to tell the story of my becoming in the book:)
Please share the contact details you wish to be made public.
contact details: nma.artgallery@gmail.com
Business WhatsApp: 0706 995 2550
Online stores:
https://printivo.com/store/nma-art-brand
Social media:
