In a joint declaration, the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (Zeitz MOCAA) and the University of the Western Cape (UWC) have announced an open call for a year-long museum fellowship initiative aimed at nurturing a fresh cadre of art and museum professionals across Africa. Open Call: Museum…
Once again, G.A.S. Foundation has partnered with Tilga Art Prize to host the winner of the annual open call at G.A.S. for an all-expenses-paid residency. Tilga Art Prize calls on artists aged 18 to 30, residing in Nigeria or of Nigerian descent, to submit their creative proposals. These…
Black Liquid Art, on May 11, 2024, welcomed patrons to a thought-provoking exploration titled ‘Beyond the Surface: The Inner World of Portraits’. This exhibition, centered on the portrayal of African women, beckons viewers to delve into the multifaceted essence of womanhood, particularly within the African context. “THROUGH HER…
In a bid to foster a thriving community of emerging talents across the African continent and its diaspora, the inaugural Madhouse Residency Programme has opened its doors, inviting applications from aspiring artists, creators, and also innovators. This transformative initiative promises a holistic educational experience, brimming with support, mentorship,…
The ADA\ Art Gallery in Accra, Ghana, is currently showcasing an evocative solo exhibition titled “The Allegory of a Seeker,” by the talented artist Abdur Rahman Muhammad. The Allegory of a Seeker exhibition by Abdur Rahman Muhammad. (Photo credits: ADA Accra) Running until June 2, 2024, this exhibition…
Senegal’s Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Culture has announced the postponement of the fifteenth iteration of the Dak’Art Biennale of Contemporary African Art by six months. Originally slated for May 16–June 16 of this year, the event will now run from November 7 to December 7. A performance…
1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair is thrilled to announce the return of 1-54 New York, from the 1st until the 4th of May 2024, its largest edition to date. In its 10th year, this edition will see 1-54 widen its dilating imprint upon the city by relocating to…
Leading Pan-African art competition, Absa L’Atelier has officially announced the opening of entries for its 2024 art competition, marking the commencement of yet another exciting chapter in the vibrant world of African art. Absa L’Atelier 2024 Art Competition For 37 years, Absa has been hosting an annual competition…
The National Gallery of Namibia opened an exhibition dedicated to exploring the cultural customs and identity of the country’s looted art in Windhoek this April. The exhibition, themed “Artistic Research Communal Knowledge (ARCK): Reconnecting with Returned Cultural Belongings,” features 23 cultural and historical belongings that were returned from…
Spanish law enforcement recently apprehended an antique dealer involved in the illicit sale of a stolen Egyptian sculpture dating back to 1450 BCE. Authorities say a 3,500-year-old sculpture was falsely documented and put up for sale at the art fair. (Photo credits: Policia Nacional) Before the event, the…
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…
Abe Ogunlende is a contemporary Nigerian artist to watch out for. What stands out in Ogunlende’s work is the ease with which his subjects appear to be in his reimaginations of spaces that look to be both joyful and relaxing. Beyond his use of fun and vibrant pastel…
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)…
The Venice Art Biennale 2024 promises a rich representation of contemporary African art, with various countries showcasing their unique cultural perspectives and creative talents. Nigeria, the Republic of Benin, Zimbabwe, Senegal, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Kenya, Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ivory Coast, South Africa, and Uganda are among…
While I often find myself in a love-and-hate relationship with textile fabrics, perceiving them as redundant and repetitive at times, the works of Marcellina Akpojotor offer a refreshing perspective. They constitute a significant part of her ongoing research on generational legacies and the evolving nature of archives. Through…
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…
The 36th Bienal de São Paulo, one of the most anticipated events in the global contemporary art scene, has announced the appointment of Bonaventure Soh Bejeng Ndikung as its chief curator. Bonaventure Soh Bejeng Ndikung (Photo Credits: Jana Edisonga / Fundação Bienal de São Paulo) Ndikung, a distinguished…
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…