Serpentine Gallery opened ‘Suspended States,’ also marking the return of Yinka Shonibare CBE RA after over 20 years with his first solo exhibition in the London public institution. Shonibare, the founder of Y.S.F. and G.A.S., first showcased at Serpentine South in 1992 as a finalist in the Barclays…
The upcoming Venice Biennale promises a notable shift in representation. Unlike previous editions, this year’s 60th biennale will host 13 African countries. With countries like Nigeria and Morocco introducing emerging and established talents, newcomers from East Africa—Tanzania and Ethiopia—are set to make their mark on the international stage.…
New York’s esteemed Metropolitan Museum of Art is embarking on a transformative journey to present a more inclusive narrative to its vast audience, shifting its spotlight to the rich heritage of African artistry spanning over 3,000 years of cultural heritage. Max Hollein, CEO and Director of the Metropolitan…
The representation of black figures by artists today is a dynamic and constantly evolving concept. This has been shaped by various factors such as migration, industrialization, and the geographical dispersion of black communities worldwide. Whether residing in Africa or the diaspora, black individuals’ experiences differ. This differentiation underscores…
In a groundbreaking collaboration, Edna Dumas, Japanese actor Yuta Nakano, and German entrepreneur Lothar Eckstein have unveiled plans for space Un, a Tokyo-based platform dedicated to championing contemporary African art and also fostering cultural exchange between Japan and Africa. Scheduled to open on April 19th and 20th, 2024,…
In a controversial cultural development, two prominent British museums have agreed to return looted gold and silver artefacts to Ghana under a long-term loan arrangement. A ceremonial cap worn by courtiers at coronations is among the items that will be loaned back to Ghana (Photo courtesy: British Museum)…
Esther Mahlangu, the legendary South African artist, recently received the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award from BMW Group South Africa at the inaugural South African Creative Arts Awards (Saca), held at Sandton Convention Centre on March 30th. Esther Mahlangu (Photo Credit: Artist) Dr. Mahlangu, a longstanding collaborator with BMW, received…
In a significant turn of events, more than 1,000 pieces of African art, previously housed at taxpayer expense in a Harris County warehouse, are set to go up for auction. This collection, steeped in controversy and embroiled in years of legal disputes, has captured the interest of both…
Ghanaian artist Ibrahim Mahama received the prestigious inaugural Sam Gilliam Award, a significant accolade bestowed upon him by the Dia Art Foundation in New York. Ibrahim Mahama, 2022. (Photo credits: Carlos Idun-Tawiah) The announcement, marking a momentous occasion in the art world, reverberates with Mahama’s groundbreaking contributions, also…
Much can be said about the work of Nairobi-based artist and founder of Kamene Residency, Kaloki Nyamai. His expansive painting practice is dense in its materiality, and his storytelling is as elaborate and narrative as it is symbolic. With his brushstrokes and threaded canvases, Nyamai opens up worlds…