How Female African Artists are Rewriting Western Narratives through Artistic Expression
Happy Women's History month!
10 to 20 years ago, if you asked an average westerner who had never been on the continent, their imagination of what Africa is would most likely be Safaris, breathtaking landscapes, endless lush green, rife with conflict, poverty, and what have you. Some may have concluded that Africa is one big country. Interestingly, many still hold true to such perceptions.
This is why art is so powerful. Whilst mainstream western media may portray an aspect of Africa as best as it profits them, African art captures moments and tells the stories of the African reality; what was, what is, and what could be.
For centuries, African art has been a potent force for change; one that has been rewriting narratives and touching on subjects that may be too sensitive for mainstream media to delve into. Africa is rich with multifaceted beauty, and African artists are not shy to portray this. Contemporary African artists are reclaiming the African narrative, using art as a powerful weapon to dismantle stereotypes and redefine the African story.
This new wave is led by female African artists, using their works to challenge the western narrative of how African women are perceived. Through their artistic expressions, they tell stories of the amazing strength, resourcefulness, love, beauty and care of an African woman.
In this digest, we will discuss how emerging female African artists are rewriting Western narratives through creative and artistic expression.
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1. Utilising Art as a Catalyst for Change
Art has always been a powerful tool for social commentary and change and female African artists are leveraging this power to address a multitude of issues. Artists like Kenya’s Wangechi Mutu, known for her captivating multimedia collages that address issues of race, gender, and colonialism, challenge the power structures that have historically marginalised African women. Nigeria's Ndidi Dike is known for her mixed-media works that explore themes of colonialism and gender. These artists, and countless others, are using their art to spark conversations, provoke thought, and demand a more nuanced understanding of Africa.
2. Redefining Narratives
The western gaze often portrays Africa as a passive recipient of history, shaped by external forces. Female African artists are dismantling this narrative by reclaiming their cultural heritage and showcasing its enduring strength. Njideka Akunyili Crosby, a Nigerian-born artist based in Los Angeles, seamlessly weaves her African heritage into her art, challenging the often monolithic portrayal of Africa. Her work not only challenges stereotypes but also invites viewers to question their assumptions about identity, belonging, and representation. Through their art, female African artists are rewriting the script, showcasing Africa as a vibrant, dynamic continent with a rich history and a future full of possibility.
3. Impactful African Art Exhibitions
The impact of these remarkable women is being felt across the globe. Renowned international art exhibitions are increasingly showcasing the work of female African artists. In Nigeria, exhibitions like small and Iconic continue to be a platform to promote female African artists. For instance, its upcoming 6th edition, HERstory Reframed, is one such exhibition that drives a change in the narrative of how African women are perceived. The exhibition which will see three(3) female African artists from Francophone Africa, is set to hold from March 30th to April 14th, 2024 at The Art Hotel Lagos.
4. Amplifying Voices through Digital Art and Social Media
The rise of digital art and social media has given female African artists unprecedented access to a global audience. Artists like Senegal’s Linda Dounia whose NFTs explore the social construction of power and the cultural implications of how it is distributed, use social media platforms to showcase her work, connect with audiences worldwide, and engage in critical conversations about race, gender, and representation. These platforms allow them to bypass traditional gatekeepers and share their work directly with the world.
5. Nurturing a New Perception
The work of these groundbreaking artists is not only changing the art world but also nurturing a new perception of Africa on a global scale. By showcasing the continent's artistic richness, cultural diversity, and the powerful voices of its women, they are challenging outdated stereotypes and fostering a deeper understanding of Africa's place in the world. This shift is particularly crucial for young African girls who can now see themselves reflected in the works of these inspiring artists. Role models like South African photographer Zanele Muholi and Ivorian painter Aboudia provide a powerful message; “African women are not just victims of circumstance, but creative forces shaping the future of the continent and the art world.”
The artistic renaissance led by female African artists is a story that continues to unfold. As they experiment with new media, explore diverse themes, and engage their communities, their voices are becoming increasingly impossible to ignore. Their work is not just about aesthetics; it's a call to action, a celebration of identity, and a testament to the enduring power of art to transform realities.
By giving these female artists a platform and allowing their stories to be told, we can move beyond tired stereotypes and embrace a new perception of Africa – a continent brimming with vibrant cultures, powerful voices, and a thriving artistic scene that is redefining the global art landscape. Let us continue to celebrate the artistry, innovation, and sheer brilliance of female African artists as they rewrite the narrative, not just on African art, but of the world itself.
Until our next digest,