About Us
Scholarly Art is an independent cultural policy think tank dedicated to advancing art and cultural development through rigorous research, strategic advisory, and policy innovation. We operate at the intersection of creative practice, governance, and institutional strategy, providing actionable insights that empower governments, cultural institutions, and creative industries to thrive sustainably.
We believe in evidence-based decision-making, knowledge sharing, and fostering partnerships that strengthen the cultural ecosystem globally, while being rooted in African perspectives and experiences.
Our Approach
At Scholarly Art, we work to bridge the gap between cultural practice and policy development. Through research, dialogue, and institutional collaboration, we help shape frameworks that support artists, cultural organizations, and policymakers in building resilient and impactful creative sectors.
Our Focus
Our work focuses on key areas that influence the growth and sustainability of the cultural ecosystem:
• Cultural policy research and analysis
• Institutional strategy and governance
• Creative economy frameworks
• Knowledge production and thought leadership
• Stakeholder dialogue and policy engagement
Our Vision
To contribute to a global cultural ecosystem where research, policy, and creative practice work together to strengthen artistic development, cultural institutions, and sustainable creative economies.
“Art shapes culture, but cultural policy shapes the conditions in which art can thrive. Thoughtful governance turns creativity into lasting societal value.”
"Drtonez"
Founder/Principal
Scholarly Art
Leadership
Founder & Principal
Tolu Ogunleye (Drtonez)
Tolu Ogunleye, professionally known as Dr Tonez, is an award-winning cultural and artistic director, music economy specialist, and multidisciplinary curator with over two decades of creative practice and more than a decade of leadership in the arts and cultural sector.
His work spans Africa and Europe, where he has led over 100 creative projects and contributed to cultural policy discussions, panels, and focus groups advancing cultural participation and the creative economy.
Dr Tonez holds a Master of Arts with distinction in Music Economy, Management and Digital Culture. His work explores the intersection of artistic practice, research, and governance, including emerging discussions on music investment volatility and artificial intelligence in creative practice. As Founder and Principal of Scholarly Art, he brings together artistic leadership, research, and policy engagement to support global cultural policy and sustainable creative ecosystems.
Research & Cultural Policy Lead
Edward Ngbodi
Edward Ngbodi is a creative and cultural practitioner with over a decade of experience across the arts and cultural sector. Holding a Master of Arts in Digital Theatre Production, Management, and Economy, his work focuses on the intersection of creative practice, research, and cultural policy.
At Scholarly Art, he leads research initiatives and contributes to the development of cultural policy insights that support sustainable growth within the creative sector, strengthening evidence-based decision-making and informed governance.
Brand & Communications Lead
Abidemi Jasmine
Abidemi Jasmine leads brand and communications at Scholarly Art, shaping how the organization communicates its research, ideas, and cultural policy insights to global audiences.
With expertise in creative communications and cultural engagement, she drives strategic messaging, digital outreach, and public engagement initiatives, ensuring Scholarly Art’s work reaches and inspires stakeholders worldwide.
Community Relations Manager
Lydia Maya
Lydia Maya manages community engagement at Scholarly Art, fostering connections between artists, cultural organizations, and local communities.
With extensive experience in creative and cultural outreach, she builds partnerships, supports volunteer initiatives, and ensures programs are inclusive, impactful, and accessible. Her work bridges research, policy, and community participation, reinforcing Scholarly Art’s mission to advance cultural policy and creative practice.
Vision
To contribute to a global cultural ecosystem where research, policy, and creative practice work together to strengthen artistic development, cultural institutions, and sustainable creative economies.
Mission
To provide research-driven guidance, strategic frameworks, and policy solutions that advance the growth, governance, and sustainability of art and cultural institutions.
What We Do
- Policy Research & Analysis: Evidence-based reports on cultural policy, creative economy frameworks, and governance strategies.
- Institutional Advisory: Strategic guidance for museums, galleries, arts councils, and creative organizations.
- Cultural Governance: Supporting policy formulation, compliance frameworks, and institutional capacity-building.
- Thought Leadership: Whitepapers, articles, and research publications shaping global cultural discourse.
- Workshops & Roundtables: Engaging stakeholders in collaborative discussions and policy development sessions.