03/08/2026
I got inspired to build the Scrap Art Museum after an encounter at the front desk of the Nasher Sculpture Center Texas.
August 3rd, 2019, I was invited to Texas to exhibit my sculptures at the Irving Convention Center in Texas. The show was poorly organized and disappointing. I was sad and frustrated.
After the show I decided to look for a place that could make me happy. So, I decided to visit the Nasher Sculpture Center with my friend, Joaquin Soto who drove me there in his red Camaro.
We entered the sculpture garden, and I took several pictures of the sculptures and installations, I had fun in the green areas and I was so full of life.
While I was leaving the museum premises, I met a young man at the front desk. I politely made an enquiry about how I could have my sculptures displayed at the Nasher Museum or even win a Nasher Prize. 🏆
His response sparked the electrode in my metal heart and caused a massive explosion. 💥
“You can never have your work in the Nasher Center, neither can you win the prize.”😭💔
I was shocked. I wanted to respond arrogantly. I wanted to ask him, “Do you know who I am?” 😂 But at that time, I was still testing the waters. I probably don’t have NAME!!
My friend Joaquin eyes became red 😡and angrily told the young receptionist, “Don’t worry, Dotun is coming back.”
I left the museum challenged, and I wrote the date in my diary.
Six years later today, we are building a museum in Nigeria 🇳🇬 one that will soon become a destination that Nasher will be proud to visit.
We are building a creative ecosystem that will birth more intellectuals. We are building an institution that will become a convergence point for professional sculptors from across the globe.
Sometimes it takes the least expected to bring about the beast in you. Dare to dream!!! Ise yaaaaaaaaa omo Ogun ise yaaaaa
