BIC, the French maker of iconic stationery, lighters, and razors, capped off a two-day “Inkspiration” workshop in Lagos aimed at nurturing Nigeria’s emerging visual artists, as part of its global celebration of the 75th anniversary of the BIC Cristal pen.
Held in partnership with EVVDEE Art Academy, the workshop trained 16 artists in advanced ballpoint pen techniques and creative entrepreneurship. Participants received hands-on mentoring from acclaimed Nigerian hyperrealist Oscar Ukonu and Guinness World Record holder Fola David-Tolaram.
“Creativity is central to BIC’s DNA,” said Anthony Amahwe, general manager for BIC Nigeria. “As we mark 75 years of the Cristal pen, we’re proud to create platforms that promote self-expression and skill development across Africa’s creative communities.”
Ukonu led the first day with an intensive masterclass on technique and artistic process using ballpoint pens, while David-Tolaram focused on brand-building and long-term sustainability in the art industry. Each participant received a certificate of completion at the end of the program.
The workshop builds on BIC’s broader push into Africa’s art scene through initiatives like Art Master Africa, a biennial competition that has spotlighted ballpoint pen art across the continent. In 2022, the company extended this effort with a virtual art gallery in the metaverse, showcasing winning entries from past competitions.
BIC’s Lagos event comes amid rising interest in creative economies across Africa, as youth-led innovation and digital platforms reshape access to global audiences. The company says it plans to replicate the workshop in other African cities.
Founded in 1945, BIC has become synonymous with affordable, everyday tools for writing and drawing. With operations in over 160 countries, the brand continues to invest in educational and artistic programs as it targets younger, creative consumers across emerging markets.
