Adewunmi Adekunle (Adewunmi Itansan), convener of the Ìtànṣán Art Fest, says the “Beacon of the Ancestors” theme was born out of a deep desire to shine light on Nigerian heritage and bring ancestors into the limelight for the younger generation.
Speaking with The Lagos Voice after the successful maiden edition of the festival held on Friday, May 22, 2026, at Adeline Hall, Lead City University, Ibadan, she expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support received. “It’s the Beacon of the Ancestors that inspired me, the urge to shine light, to bring our ancestors into the limelight,” Adewunmi said.
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She praised the participation of traditional leaders and veteran artists like Prince Tunde Odunlade, noting their willingness to support and partner with young cultural promoters.
“The traditional leaders and veteran artists are here today because they want to support. They are ready to always support and partner with young ones like me with certainty of what they are doing and projecting the culture in a greater light,” she added.
The convener revealed ambitious plans for the festival. “Our audience and followers should be expecting Ìtànṣán travelling across Southwest Nigeria. This year we have it in Ibadan, watch out for the next state.”
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She acknowledged the support received so far from the Oyo State Ministry of Culture and Tourism while calling for deeper collaboration.
“The government has supported me as it was endorsed by the Oyo State Ministry of Culture and Tourism, and they have tried their best. We are looking forward to more collaboration from government bodies, especially through funding in our next edition.”
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Adewunmi believes the festival has already sparked meaningful change among attendees. “I believe through this event, we have touched many people, making them curious and wanting to learn more about our ancestors, culture, art, and tradition.”
She also launched her new book, Emissaries of the Gods, during the festival, a children’s book aimed at reconnecting young minds with Yoruba spirituality and heritage.
“The book I launched today, Emissaries of the Gods, is for kids and teenagers. Parents need to buy one for that kid or teenager, they will see themselves in another light. We need to allow these children see themselves around the Orisa and not something they should put away. So, I am urging everyone to get it, even as adults,” she appealed.
