The rise of African artistic innovation on the world stage never ceases to inspire admiration. Between the unparalleled cultural richness of the black continent and the breathtaking creativity of artists who build bridges between tradition and modernity to give birth to ever more relevant and immersive works, contemporary African art continues to dazzle amateurs and neophytes alike in the creative world. In this dynamic expansion of contemporary African art beyond borders, Patchogue Arts Council MoCA LI presents “A Tapestry of Contemporary African Art“, an exclusive exhibition revealing the profusion of contemporary African creativity.
Until March 17, the Museum of Contemporary Art Long Island, in collaboration with curators Laura Day Webb and John Cino, presents a group show featuring a bewitching diversity of works in various artistic media. The exhibition curators have selected contemporary African artists living and working across the continent, in Europe and the United States, to participate in this exclusive presentation of contemporary African art.
Indeed, the market for contemporary African art has been growing rapidly worldwide over the past decade, with no signs of slowing down. Numerous art spaces are emerging on the continent, and increased international recognition of African art through dedicated exhibitions and events is helping to reinforce this exciting creative market. “A Tapestry of Contemporary African Art” offers a wide selection of mediums explored by artists, as well as an analysis of themes ranging from the political to the intimate, creating a rapidly evolving landscape that challenges stereotypes of the continent and its peoples, while celebrating its rich cultural heritage and captivating new audiences.
“A Tapestry of Contemporary African Art” celebrates the contributions of emerging and established artists from across the continent, including Zimbabwe, Cameroon, Nigeria, Kenya and Tunisia. Its aim is to introduce these contemporary players to new audiences through a wide range of themes that highlight their individual voices and styles, while underscoring their collective resonance.
Through a diverse palette of media ranging from textiles to oil painting on canvas, mixed media to photography, wood engraving to prints, the exhibition space offers a captivating showcase for viewers to explore and appreciate the richness of contemporary African art in all its splendor.
Laura Day Webb reinforces this idea, saying: “A tapestry of contemporary African art offers an opportunity for audiences less familiar with the art to immerse themselves in an intimate experience. By presenting a diversity of mediums from artists across the continent, ‘A Tapestry of Contemporary African Art’ fosters cross-cultural dialogue and immersion in the diversity and depth of the work of contemporary African artists.”
Prominent protagonists participating in this unprecedented artistic revelation include Angèle Etoundi Essamba, Elias Mung’ora, Leo Mativo, Marc Standing, Mongezi Ncaphayi, Osborne Macharia, Prudence Chimutuwah, Thameur Mejri, Victor Ekpuk and Wole Lagunju.