The NOMAS Rice, a student organization at Rice University, hosted the “Contextualizing Africa” exhibition panel on April 20th, 2023. This was a part of their ongoing efforts to celebrate and educate people about African art and culture. The exhibition panel featured four African artists; Ifeoma Anyaeji, Njideka Akunyili Crosby, Olu Oguibe, and Nkiru Nzegwu. They all shared their personal experiences and creative processes.
The organizers held the exhibition panel in conjunction with the “Contextualizing Africa” art exhibition. The exhibition featured the works of various African artists and examined themes such as identity, migration, and social justice. Curated by NOMAS Rice, in collaboration with the Moody Center for the Arts at Rice University. The exhibition started on the 18th of March and runs till May 30th, 2023.
The panel discussion began with each artist introducing themselves, followed by a discussion on the role of African art in contemporary society. Nkiru Nzegwu, an artist and professor of Africana Studies at Binghamton University, emphasized the importance of African art. He explained its importance, especially in shaping and preserving African culture. Nzegwu shared her experience of growing up in Nigeria and how her art reflects her cultural heritage and experiences.
Ifeoma Anyaeji, a Nigerian artist and weaver, discussed how her work explores the intersections between traditional weaving techniques. Anyaeji uses traditional materials such as raffia and sisal to create intricate and colourful weavings that challenge traditional notions of African art.
Njideka Akunyili Crosby, a Nigerian-American artist, spoke about how her art reflects her experiences of living in two different cultures. Her work often features personal narratives and explores themes such as migration and identity. Crosby has earned international recognition for her art, and the MacArthur Foundation awarded her a “Genius Grant” in 2021
Olu Oguibe, a Nigerian-born artist and professor of art and African American Studies at the University of Connecticut, discussed how his work engages with social and political issues. Oguibe’s art often features political messages and critiques of systems of power. One of his most well-known works is the “Monument to Strangers and Refugees,” a public sculpture in Kassel, Germany, that features the inscription “I WAS A STRANGER AND YOU TOOK ME IN” in four different languages.
The panel discussion also touched on the challenges and opportunities that African artists face in the contemporary art world. Many of the artists spoke about the lack of representation of African art in mainstream art institutions. Additionally, they also emphasised the need for more spaces to showcase African art.
The “Contextualizing Africa” exhibition and panel discussion provided a platform for African artists to share their experiences as well as their perspectives on the role of African art in contemporary society. The exhibition and panel were part of NOMAS Rice’s ongoing efforts to celebrate and educate people about African art and culture.
Many members of the Rice community and the wider Houston community attended the event. The “Contextualizing Africa” exhibition panel hosted by NOMAS Rice was not only an opportunity for visitors to engage with African art and culture but also featured a series of educational programs and events. In addition to viewing the artworks on display, attendees could participate in artist talks, workshops, and performances..
The “Contextualizing Africa” exhibition discussion provided a unique opportunity for African artists to share their work and experiences with a wider audience. The exhibition showcased the diversity and richness of African art. Furt highlighted the important role that African artists play in shaping contemporary art and culture.
