How to Collect Contemporary Art from Africa : An Introduction
Willing to Collect Contemporary Art from Africa but Need to Know Where to Start?
Commencing a journey into art collecting can be intimidating. You may wonder where to begin and whom to focus on in your collection. Exploring the world of Contemporary Art from Africa may pose even more challenges. While Senegal, Nigeria and South Africa have established themselves as international hubs for contemporary art, the art market in Africa is not "deep enough". Often, African artists have to exhibit or sometimes live in the West to come back to their home country as established artists. On the other hand, this market offers the opportunity to create exclusive bonding with local artists and collect high-quality artwork with a singular aesthetic and deep narrative, which would be difficult to afford in the US or Europe.
Before you begin your art collection journey, immerse yourself in the world of contemporary African art through fairs, articles, and blogs. You will appreciate the profound connection between art and African cultures. A great starting point is exploring unx-art blogs and delving into our book highlighting Nigerian contemporary artists in Abuja.
As you delve into the remarkable diversity of Contemporary Art from Africa, Allow us to share our collector handbook with you:
Discover the Artist
Research the artists' background you are interested in, whether they are art school formally trained or self-taught, and look for past exhibitions they've held. Explore their portfolio, interviews, and statements to appreciate their narrative better. Engaging with the artist in person or online offers valuable insights, enhancing your understanding of the artwork and creating a deeper connection with the creator to yield another dimension to your artwork.
Seek for Quality
Pursuing high quality is not merely a suggestion but a fundamental principle when navigating the world of art in general; this is also valid for contemporary African art. Discerning collectors should closely examine the intricate details, skilful techniques, and thoughtful material choices that define each piece. By investing in art of impeccable quality, collectors contribute not only to the aesthetic richness of their collections but also to the enduring legacy of the artists behind the creations.
Benchmark and Authenticate
Collectors should establish a price benchmark by researching similar artworks by the same artist or within the same genre. This benchmark can help you gauge whether the asking price is fair and within the expected range. Additionally, insist on obtaining an authentication certificate from the artist or an established art stakeholder. The certificate is essential to record the provenance of your art purchase, whether the artist is emerging or established.
Collect from the Heart
While financial considerations are relevant, collecting art is, at its core, an emotional endeavour. The act of buying with the heart, guided by a personal connection to the artwork, adds a layer of authenticity to the collection. Whether it's the resonance of a powerful message, an intimate emotional journey, or the sheer visual delight of the artwork, collecting with genuine passion ensures that the collection reflects the collector's unique taste and sensibilities.
Nurture Emerging Talent
A hallmark of contemporary African art lies in the vigor of its emerging talents. These young artists, unburdened by conventions, bring forth fresh perspectives, innovative techniques, and an eagerness to challenge artistic norms. By actively seeking out and supporting these rising stars, collectors become patrons of not just artworks but of the artists' journeys, playing a crucial role in shaping the trajectory of contemporary African art.
By engaging with artists, valuing quality, setting benchmarks, and investing emotionally, collectors will build a collection reflecting the depth and growing significance of the contemporary art scene in Africa and, more importantly, bringing joy and meaning. Collectors can curate a collection that not only adorns their spaces but also serves as a testament to the richness and vitality of contemporary African art. This journey is not just about collecting; it's about becoming a part of the living narrative of art that is reshaping the global discourse on creativity and culture.
At unx-art, we connect collectors with artists from Africa, carefully selecting pieces for their quality and narratives. Join us on this exciting journey as we explore further African art hubs and artists through our blogs, igniting your passion for the unexpected.
