Contemporary African Art | OOA Gallery

Contemporary African art stands at the intersection of tradition and modernity, offering a dynamic and compelling reflection of the diverse narratives emerging from the continent. Rooted in a rich cultural heritage, African artists are reshaping the art landscape, challenging stereotypes, and contributing to global conversations on identity, diaspora, and the impact of globalization. This extensive exploration delves into the multifaceted dimensions of contemporary African art, examining key themes such as Afrofuturism, storytelling, postcolonialism, activism, tradition, modernity, migration, urbanization, and the resilience of diverse artistic expressions.

Afrofuturism

Afrofuturism has emerged as a powerful and transformative genre within contemporary African art, envisioning futures that break away from Eurocentric narratives. Artists engage with speculative fiction, science fiction, and technology to reimagine Africa's role in shaping the world. This futuristic perspective is not merely a departure from the past but serves as a tool for decolonization and activism. Afrofuturist artworks challenge traditional power structures and offer a fresh perspective on what the future holds for the African continent.
Contemporary African art explores the complex terrain of identity, both on the continent and within the diaspora. Artists like Oluwole Omofemi from Nigeria grapple with questions of selfhood, cultural heritage, and the impact of historical narratives on personal and collective identities. Through their work, they navigate the nuances of the diasporic experience, drawing connections between Africa and its global communities. This exploration fosters a sense of interconnectedness, emphasizing the shared experiences that transcend geographical boundaries.

Oluwole OMOFEMI
Unarmed , 2020
Oil and acrylic on canvas
152cm H x 183cm W
Cultural bridge

In the age of globalization, contemporary African art serves as a cultural bridge, facilitating exchanges that transcend borders. Artists as Boris Anje (Anjel) from Cameroon draw inspiration from diverse sources, blending traditional African forms with contemporary influences. This interplay between tradition and modernity contributes to the global dialogue on cultural exchange, challenging preconceived notions and fostering a deeper understanding of the interconnected world we inhabit.

ANJEL (Boris Anje)
The Dawn of Sisterhood, 2022
Acrylic and silk screen print on canvas
140cm H x 160cm W
(55 ¹/₈ H x 62 ⁶³/₆₄ W inches)
Storytelling

Storytelling is a central theme in contemporary African art, offering a platform for artists to convey narratives that challenge historical narratives shaped by colonial perspectives. Through their art, creators like Ebenezer Akinola from Nigeria engage in a process of postcolonial discourse, redefining African stories and challenging the legacy of colonialism. The act of storytelling becomes a form of activism, reclaiming agency and contributing to the ongoing process of decolonization.

Ebenezer Akinola
Dreams in Red I, 2023
Oil on canvas
60 cm H x 60 cm W
(23 3/5 × 23 3/5 inches)
El Anatsui

One of the key players in contemporary African art is El Anatsui, a Ghanaian sculptor whose work transcends traditional boundaries. Anatsui's large-scale installations, often made from recycled materials such as bottle caps, exemplify the fusion of tradition and modernity. His art reflects a deep engagement with African cultural forms while addressing contemporary themes. Anatsui's work has garnered international acclaim, making him a pivotal figure in the global art scene and an inspiration for a new generation of artists.

El Anatsui – Brooklyn Museum
Tradition and modernity

Contemporary African art showcases a nuanced interplay between tradition and modernity. Artists like Mederic Turay from Ivory Coast draw on rich cultural traditions, exploring ancestral wisdom and heritage, while simultaneously embracing contemporary techniques and mediums. This fusion not only celebrates the diversity of African artistic expressions but also challenges stereotypes that depict the continent as static or unchanging. The dialogue between tradition and modernity becomes a site for innovation, pushing the boundaries of artistic possibilities.

Mederic Turay – Performance – 2023 – Sitges, Barcelona – Spain
International exhibitions

OOA GALLERY at Art X Lagos 2022

African art, both traditional and contemporary, has become a focal point for cultural exchange. African artists participate in international exhibitions like Dak’Art Biennale in Dakar, 1-54 Art Fair in New York, London and Marrakech, Art X Lagos Art Fair, residencies, and collaborations, fostering a global dialogue on art and culture. This interconnectedness contributes to a more nuanced understanding of Africa's place in the world, transcending simplistic narratives. African artists actively shape and participate in global art conversations, influencing and being influenced by diverse artistic traditions.

OOA GALLERY at 1-54 London 2021
Migration and urbanization

Daniel Onguene
The dreamer, 2023
Acrylic on canvas
140cm H x 110cm W
(55 1/10 H × 43 3/10 W inches)

Themes of migration and urbanization are prevalent in contemporary African art, reflecting the continent's evolving demographics. Artists like Daniel Onguene from Cameroon explore the impact of migration on identity, culture, and society, addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by urbanization. The art becomes a lens through which to examine the shifting dynamics of African cities, capturing the resilience of communities adapting to new environments and the complexities of urban life.
African art fairs, museums, and foundations

Africa Supernova – Schulting Art Collection

The proliferation of African art fairs, museums, and foundations has played a crucial role in providing platforms for artists, fostering appreciation, and creating networks for cultural exchange. Events such as the 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair have gained prominence, bringing together artists, collectors, and enthusiasts from around the world. African art museums and foundations and important art collections like the Schulting Art Collection contribute to the preservation and promotion of artistic legacies, showcasing the diversity and richness of contemporary African art. Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (Zeitz MOCAA): Located in Cape Town, South Africa, Zeitz MOCAA is the largest museum of contemporary African art. It houses a diverse collection of artworks, providing a platform for artists from the continent and fostering a greater understanding of contemporary African art globally. National Museum of African Art (NMAfA): Situated in Washington, D.C., NMAfA is part of the Smithsonian Institution and focuses on collecting, exhibiting, and preserving African art. The museum actively engages with contemporary African artists, contributing to the global appreciation of African artistic expressions
Social commentary and activism

Contemporary African artists often use their work as a form of social commentary and activism. They address pressing issues such as social inequality, political unrest, and environmental concerns. Through their art, creators become agents of change, challenging societal norms and advocating for justice. The visual language becomes a powerful tool for activism, inspiring conversations and pushing for positive transformations within African societies and beyond.
Resilience is a recurring theme in contemporary African art, reflecting the ability of artists and communities to withstand and overcome challenges. The eclectic and diverse nature of African artistic expressions challenges monolithic perceptions, showcasing the vast array of styles, mediums, and perspectives. This diversity enriches the global art landscape, offering fresh insights and contributing to a more inclusive narrative of contemporary art.
social commentary
External links

https://whitehotmagazine.com/articles/stylish-blacks-by-paul-laster/4977

HTTPS://ELEMMENTAL.COM/2020/11/26/10-ARTISTAS-AFRICANOS-QUE-DEBERIAS-CONOCER

HTTPS://WWW.LAVANGUARDIA.COM/MAGAZINE/EXPERIENCIAS/20220504/8205249/OLUWOLE-OMOFEMI-PINTOR-DA-VOZ-COLOR-NUEVA-MUJER-AFRICANA.HTML

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ebenezer_Akinola

https://www.guggenheim-bilbao.eus/la-coleccion/artistas/el-anatsui

https://www.bonart.cat/es/n/44119/mederic-turay-un-sueno-que-no-cesa

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dakar_Biennale

https://partners.artsy.net/resource/gallery-spotlight-out-of-africa/

https://artafricamagazine.org/10-artists-to-watch-at-the-7th-edition-of-art-x-lagos/

https://ocula.com/magazine/features/a-century-of-black-figuration/

https://www.si.edu/about/african-art-museum

https://www.ileworldwide.com/blogs/news/africa-supernova-the-schulting-art-collection-major-retrospective