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…
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…
Goodman Gallery has announced the representation of the estate of late Ghanaian painter Atta Kwami, in partnership with London’s Beardsmore Gallery. Kwami, who lived and worked between the U.K. and his native Ghana until his death in 2021, was posthumously awarded the Maria Lassnig Prize the same year. A new…
Dr. Uzodinma Iweala, after seven transformative years at the helm of The Africa Center, will step down from his role as CEO in December 2024. Uzodinma Iweala (Photo credits: The Africa Center) Under his leadership, the institution transitioned from a visual arts museum to an interdisciplinary center with…
The Institute of Contemporary Art, Boston unveiled a captivating installation titled “Lynloop” by South African artist Igshaan Adam, adorning the prestigious Sandra and Gerald Fineberg Art Wall at the entrance. Igshaan Adams, Lynloop, 2024. Installation view, Igshaan Adams, the Institute of Contemporary Art/Boston, 2024–25. (Photo credits: Mel Taing)…
In collaboration with Soto Gallery, Ecobank Nigeria presents the +234Art Fair, an international exhibition aimed at promoting African art and its artists. Ecobank Nigeria and Soto Gallery presents +234Art Fair (Courtesy: Ecobank Nigeria) Commencing on Friday, March 22, 2024, the 10-day art fair will grace Lagos. Its mission?…
The Holberg Prize committee has announced Cameroonian researcher and political theorist, Achille Mbembe, from the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, as the recipient of the 2024 Holberg Prize for his groundbreaking research in African history, postcolonial studies, humanities, and also social science. Achille Mbembe. (Photo credits: Chanté Schatz,…
The Rele Arts Foundation has officially opened applications for the 2025 Young Contemporaries residency program. 2025 Young Contemporaries Residency Program This initiative, now in its milestone 10th edition, specifically aims to empower emerging artists from across Africa. It offers a transformative experience aimed at fostering critical thinking and…
Harold Offeh, renowned for his diverse artistic practice joins the selected artists shortlisted to contribute to London’s permanent HIV/AIDS memorial. Offeh’s work delves into exploring history, particularly the space generated by the embodiment of historical narratives. With a keen interest in addressing contemporary culture, Offeh employs humor as…