Hope 93 gallery
In May we caught up with Aki Abiola the founder of Hope 93. An inclusive art advisory and space championing underrepresented global artists and inspiring collectors. Visit: https://hope93.com/
Hope 93 is an art advisory and project space founded by Aki Abiola, a Cambridge University alum with nearly 20 years in finance. He also serves on the Board of Pallant House Museum and the Tate’s Acquisition Committee. His journey into art began in 2006 when he saved £750 to buy a print that reflected his childhood and family. That moment sparked a deep passion for collecting.
Over the years, Aki built a collection featuring emerging artists—especially women, non-binary, LGBTQ+, Black, Latin American, and British talents. But the path wasn’t easy. He faced many questions: Why was art so expensive? Why were diverse voices missing in galleries and museums? Why did it feel unwelcoming?
As he gained experience and global connections, he found answers. So, he created Hope 93 to make the art world more accessible and inclusive. The space supports underrepresented artists and aims to inspire new generations of collectors.
Importantly, the name “Hope 93” honors Aki’s late father, who ran for president in Nigeria in 1993. Though his dream of democracy didn’t materialize, his legacy lives on. Hope 93 reimagines that vision—creating space, opportunity, and community through art. It’s thoughtful, welcoming, and yes, cool.
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