The global art scene has seen a massive dedication and appreciation for works from African contemporary artists in recent years. This year, Sotheby’s and Olym Collection presents ‘Contemporary Redefined: Africa Today’, an exhibition showcasing works from young African contemporary artists.
The exhibition is an invitation for the audience to experience 31 works created by 20 artists across Africa. It is curated by Ghanaian artist Joseph Awuah-Darko. Joseph Awuah-Darko is the founder of the Noldor Artist Residency and the President of the Institute Museum of Ghana in Accra.
The works on display are on a loan from the Olym Collection, a private collection of contemporary African art founded by two brothers based in Israel. The goal of the Olym Collection is to bring together artists. These artists from across the various geographical regions on the continent with different styles and artistic practices to celebrate diversity. The collection includes sculptures, paintings, photographs and videos. The exhibition which includes performance and installations started on the 5th of February and ends on the 5th of May, 2023 at the Tel Aviv Museum.
Image courtesy of Joseph Awuah-Darko
Using their personal stories, political and cultural identities, the represented artists explore issues of societal and spiritual nature. The represented artists by Sotheby’s are: Joshua Oheneba-Takyi (Ghana), Samuel Olayombo (Nigeria), Kassou Seydou (Senegal), Aliou Diack (Senegal), Kelvin Ansong (Ghana), Emmanuel Taku (Ghana), Ibrahim Ballo (Mali), Jean- David Nkot (Cameroon), Omar Victor Di (Ivory Coast), Prince Gyasi (Ghana), Eric Gyamfi (Ghana), Vincent Michea (b. Dakar), Foster Sakyiamah (Ghana), Joseph Awuah- Darko (Ghana), Richmond Agamelah (Ghana), Bamouin Sinze (Ivory Coast), Jean-Colomb Efiambelo (Madagascar), Adjaratou Ouedraogo (Burkina Faso), Samuel Vittu (Nigeria) and Boluwatife Oyediran (Nigeria).
Image courtesy of Joseph Awuah-Darko
While the exhibition is open, there will be interactive workshops which will be led by artists and curators. These interactive sessions will give visitors a chance to gain insight into the booming contemporary African art scene, the works of the represented artists and their creative processes.
The Sotheby’s exhibition invites visitors to explore a continent rich in colours and flavours. To immerse themselves in contemporary African art. Promoting cultural and knowledge harmony, ‘Contemporary Redefined: Africa Today’ will contribute to the advancement of artistic expression and creative freedom. This exhibition focuses on Africa’s modern aesthetic and emphasizes on the richness and depth of its cultural past.
None of the works in the exhibition is for sale.
