Africa, also commonly known as the black continent, is an invitation to travel all by itself. By the variety of its landscapes with savannah, equatorial jungle, Sahara desert, its extraordinary fauna with zebras, wild animals, elephant giraffes, gazelle ... Africa is a real breath of exoticism for all people sensitive to the beauties of this world. From Morocco to South Africa via Egypt and Madagascar, the African peoples offer the world a diversity of extraordinary cultures which are so many fascinating subjects for artists to explore in their paintings. Among the great Africanist painters who have best known how to immortalize the beauties of the African continent, we can cite Léon Abry, Germaine Acarin, Fernand Allard l’Olivier and Antoine Allard.
Explore all styles and all painting techniques: contemporary paintings, street art, abstract art, figurative art, landscapes, portraits, still lifes, nudes, watercolor, oil painting, acrylic painting… Artmajeur is for everyone artistic sensibilities and celebrates beauty by your side for 20 years with more than 2 million contemporary works of art to discover ... or acquire! The world benchmark for contemporary paintings. Discover works by contemporary artists from around the world to decorate your interior with class! Simple art lover or confirmed collector? Find the favorite canvas or painting that will truly enhance your decoration. Artmajeur offers you original works, limited editions and art prints by the best contemporary artists in the world. On Artmajeur, the paintings are selected by enthusiasts and experts in the art market. We select for you the original works of trendy, award-winning and recognized painters as well as new rising values in the field of contemporary art to guide you and help you in your process of buying paintings online.
Contemporary African paintings have been gaining popularity in recent years. These original Artworks are created by contemporary African artists who draw inspiration from their cultural heritage, history and daily lives. The main types of supports used include canvas, paper and board, while the materials used include oil, acrylic, watercolor and mixed media. What is unique about this type of artwork is the way it captures the essence of African identity and cultural diversity. The use of vibrant colors, bold patterns, and intricate designs is a distinctive feature of contemporary African paintings. These artworks offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Africa while also reflecting the complexities of modern African life.
The Pan-African movement, which emerged in the 1950s and 1960s, played a crucial role in promoting African art and culture, leading to the establishment of art schools and galleries across the continent. However, the 1980s and 1990s were marked by a decline in the market for African art, due to economic and political instability in many African countries.
Contemporary Africa paintings have undergone significant evolution in recent years, with artists exploring new themes and techniques to reflect the changing times. The depiction of everyday African life, struggles, and triumphs has become more common in contemporary Africa paintings. Moreover, artists have incorporated new technologies and mediums, such as digital art and mixed media, to create unique and captivating pieces. These developments have brought contemporary Africa paintings to the forefront of the global art market, attracting a growing number of collectors and enthusiasts. The importance of contemporary Africa paintings lies in their ability to showcase African culture and perspectives, while also contributing to the diversification and expansion of the contemporary art market. As such, they are not only valuable artistic expressions but also valuable cultural and economic assets.
Contemporary African art is a vibrant and evolving field, with many talented artists making significant contributions to the genre. Some of the most well-known contemporary African artists include:
El Anatsui - This Ghanaian artist is known for his large-scale installations made from recycled materials, such as bottle caps and aluminum strips. His work explores themes of globalization, consumerism, and the cultural identities of African people.
Wangechi Mutu - Mutu is a Kenyan-born artist who is known for her collages, paintings, and sculptures that address themes of gender, race, and identity. Her work often features images of the female body, which she uses to challenge traditional notions of beauty and power.
Julie Mehretu - Mehretu is an Ethiopian-born artist who creates large-scale abstract paintings that explore themes of history, geography, and politics. Her work is characterized by its complex layering of lines and shapes, which create a sense of movement and dynamism.
Kehinde Wiley - Wiley is an American artist of Nigerian descent who is known for his portraits of African Americans and other people of color. His work challenges traditional notions of power and representation by placing his subjects in poses that reference classical European paintings.
Chéri Samba - Samba is a Congolese artist who is known for his colorful, narrative paintings that address social and political issues facing Africa today. His work often features humorous or satirical elements, which he uses to critique the status quo.
These artists are just a few examples of the many talented contemporary African artists working today. Through their work, they are challenging stereotypes and expanding our understanding of what it means to be African in the 21st century.
Africa has a rich history of art, and contemporary African paintings are gaining recognition and appreciation worldwide. Here are some well-known contemporary African paintings and their descriptions:
"The Beautiful Ones" by Kehinde Wiley, 2019 This artwork depicts three Black women in vibrant, regal poses against a bright, floral backdrop. Wiley’s signature style of mixing traditional portraiture with contemporary elements is evident in this piece.
"African Renaissance" by Chéri Samba, 2001 Samba’s colorful and busy painting shows a group of African people, including historical figures such as Nelson Mandela and Kwame Nkrumah, celebrating their culture and heritage. The painting is a celebration of Africa’s resilience and potential for greatness.
"Les Baigneuses" by Njideka Akunyili Crosby, 2012 This painting shows two Nigerian women standing in a bathroom, surrounded by a mix of African and Western imagery. Akunyili Crosby’s work explores the complexity of identity and the ways in which cultures intersect and influence one another.
"The Beat of Joy" by El Anatsui, 2010 Anatsui’s large-scale sculpture is made from thousands of pieces of recycled metal, woven together to create a shimmering, tapestry-like effect. The work speaks to the themes of transformation and renewal, as well as the importance of sustainability.
"The Eye of the Beholder" by Yinka Shonibare, 2012 This sculpture consists of a mannequin dressed in a Victorian-style gown made from African-inspired fabric. Shonibare’s work often explores themes of identity, race, and colonialism, and this piece challenges traditional notions of beauty and taste.
Contemporary African paintings are diverse and complex, reflecting the myriad experiences and perspectives of people across the continent. These works demonstrate the beauty, resilience, and creativity of African art and culture.
