How Contemporary African Artists Are Redefining The Global Art Scene
African art has a rich and complex history that spans thousands of years and encompasses diverse cultures, styles, and media. Today, contemporary African artists build on this legacy by creating works that challenge stereotypes and misconceptions about the continent while pushing the boundaries of the global art scene. In this article, Tales Of Africa explores the power of African art and how contemporary African artists are reshaping our thoughts about art, culture, and identity.
Honouring the Past, Building on the Present
One of the defining features of contemporary African art is its ability to honour and build on the continent’s rich cultural heritage. Many African artists draw inspiration from traditional techniques and materials, such as beadwork, weaving, and wood carving, to create works that reflect the history and traditions of their communities. At the same time, they are incorporating new materials, technologies, and approaches to develop innovative and cutting-edge works that push the boundaries of what is possible in art.

The work of South African artist, Mary Sibande
For example, South African artist Mary Sibande uses traditional fabric and embroidery techniques to create life-size sculptures that explore the experiences of black women in post-apartheid South Africa. Her work combines historical and contemporary elements to create a powerful commentary on race, gender, and identity.
Kenyan artist Wangechi Mutu uses a mix of traditional and contemporary techniques to create mixed-media collages that challenge Western beauty standards and the objectification of women. Her work explores issues of race, gender, and identity while drawing on her experiences as a Kenyan woman living and working in New York City.

Kenyan artist Wangechi Mutu poses by one of her works
Addressing Social and Political Issues
Another defining feature of contemporary African art is its ability to address various social and political issues, from the legacy of colonialism and the African diaspora to gender equality and environmental sustainability. By confronting these issues through their art, African artists challenge viewers to engage with these topics in new and meaningful ways.
Nigerian artist Victor Ehikhamenor creates intricate and often politically charged works that explore issues of identity, migration, and the legacy of colonialism. His work incorporates traditional Nigerian symbols and motifs while drawing on contemporary themes and techniques to create a powerful and thought-provoking commentary on the world.

Victor Ehikhamenor
Similarly, Zimbabwean artist Kudzanai-Violet Hwami uses painting and digital media to explore issues of gender, identity, and belonging. Her work draws on her experiences as a Zimbabwean living in London. It often incorporates autobiographical elements to create a deeply personal and emotionally resonant commentary on the complexities of modern life.

Kudzanai-Violet Hwami
Collaborating Across Borders
Contemporary African artists collaborate with artists worldwide to create works that reflect our globalised world’s complex and interconnected nature. African artists amplify their voices and build new audiences for their work by working together.
South African collective iQhiya uses performance art to explore issues of gender, race, and identity. The group, made up entirely of black women, performs in public spaces and galleries, challenging viewers to engage with their work and confront their biases and assumptions.
Challenging Stereotypes
African art challenges stereotypes in several ways. Contemporary African artists are creating works that showcase the diversity of the continent and its cultures, challenging the idea that Africa is a homogenous entity. By drawing on their own experiences and cultural heritage, African artists are creating works that reflect the complexities and nuances of life in Africa today.
African art challenges the Western notion of what constitutes “good” art. African artists use various techniques and materials, including traditional methods and materials that have long been marginalised in the Western art world. This helps to break down the notion that Western art is the only art worthy of recognition and attention.
African art challenges stereotypes about Africa itself. By creating works that address social and political issues such as colonialism, migration, gender equality, and environmental sustainability, African artists are presenting a more nuanced and complex view of the continent. This challenges the common Western perception of Africa as a place of poverty, conflict, and despair and instead presents Africa as a place of creativity, resilience, and innovation.
African artists are helping to reshape the global art scene and challenge long-held assumptions about Africa and its place in the world.