Art, culture and whisky came together in Port Harcourt as world-renowned Scottish whisky brand, The Macallan, partnered with Art in the Garden City for Women in Arts & Design 2026, a creative gathering celebrating women’s artistic expression.
Held at Delaroke Art Gallery, the exhibition opened with a Collectors Evening on 7 March 2026, bringing together artists, collectors and members of the creative community for an intimate cultural experience. A general public viewing followed on 8 March 2026, allowing broader audiences to engage with the artworks and themes explored in the exhibition.
Centred on the theme “Witness I,” the event invited audiences to reflect on how women engage with environment, materiality and cultural memory through art and storytelling. It created a platform for artists, influencers and members of the creative community to experience artworks that highlight the role of women in shaping contemporary artistic narratives.
Brand Manager, Edrington Nigeria, Idorenyin Emmanson commented on the significance of the event, stating, “Our partnership with Art in the Garden City for Women in Arts & Design 2026 is a testament to The Macallan’s enduring commitment to the arts. We believe that true craftsmanship, whether in the creation of our exceptional single malts or in the expressive works of these talented women, is driven by passion and a meticulous attention to detail. It’s an honour to celebrate and support the powerful, diverse narratives of Nigerian women artists.”
A key moment of the evening was an exclusive tasting of The Macallan 12 Years led by The Macallan Brand Specialist, Omodolapo Olaiwole, who welcomed guests in celebration of International Women’s Day while reflecting on the natural connection between artistic creativity and whisky craftsmanship.
Guests also tasted the Harmony Collection, a limited-edition The Macallan expression inspired by nature and sustainability, adding another dimension to the evening’s celebration of creativity and innovation.
“We are thrilled to bring the Women in Arts & Design initiative back for a second year,” said Juliet David-West II, Convener, Founder, and Director of Programmes and Partnerships, Art in the Garden City. “We are celebrating International Women’s Day and the immense creative talent within Rivers State and the Niger Delta. We are grateful for the support of The Macallan, the National Gallery of Art, and the National Council for Arts and Culture. Our mission is to promote the entire creative economy and change the narrative for our region by diving into the rich tapestry of our diverse cultures and heritage. This movement is about harnessing that potential for positive change.”
The exhibition experience was complemented by a live musical performance by Narani, whose performance created an engaging atmosphere while reinforcing the event’s focus on artistic collaboration and community.
Among those in attendance were Influencers, Soft Ajebutter, Urban Ese, Media personality, Mimi from Soundcity Radio, fashion designer, Portia Owhiri, Sculptor, Mr Sweet and a host of other notable personalities.
Through partnerships with cultural platforms such as Art in the Garden City, The Macallan continues to engage with Nigeria’s creative ecosystem while supporting initiatives that celebrate artistic expression, heritage and storytelling.
