Arts and Women in Development

This paper sets out to examine arts and women in development. Historical methodology of research is employed that is: observation, documents on past and present events, literature and internet information’s. The statistics of practicing Nigeria women artists in some fields compared to their male folks forms a gap. Nigeria women artists in the 21st century are just trying to bridge the gap now. Women are now paying unflinching attention to show case themselves and their works side by side their male folks, these have led to some impressive exhibitions, shows nationally and internationally in groups, solo, and stage performance. However, only few detailed research works have been done on Nigerian female artists and documentation of their contributions socially, economically and educationally. The main aim of this paper is to high light the significance of Nigerian women artists and their contributions to development. Achievements of Nigerian women as pioneer professors in Nigeria and Africa, and their excellence in other areas of arts is also examined. It is not possible to discuss every area of art; the arts alone can be classified into 13 categories: acting, announcing, architecture, fine arts, directing, animation, dancing and choreography, design, entertainment and performance, music and singing, photography, production and writing.