unx Artful Escapes: Top African Contemporary Art Exhibitions to Visit This Summer

Stage image: "The Harlem Renaissance and Transatlantic Modernism” at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York (February 25 - July 28, 2024) To discover the art exhibition visit Met’s page

As summer arrives in the northern hemisphere and winter takes hold in the south, the art world is buzzing with excitement. This season, the African contemporary art scene is packed with exhibitions that promise to captivate and inspire. From the heart of Basel to the vibrant streets of Cape Town, here are my top recommendations for must-visit exhibitions.

“When We See Us” at Kunstmuseum Basel

May 25 - October 27, 2024

Kunstmuseum Basel presents a landmark exhibition that delves into the impact of Black figurative painting over the past century. Curated by Koyo Kouoh, it features over 150 artists, including Lynette Yiadom-Boakye and Kehinde Wiley. This grand collection spans a century of Black figurative painting, highlighting the resilience and creativity of Black artists. Each piece invites viewers to reflect on the myriad ways in which Black artists have navigated and influenced the art world.

Why it’s a Must-See: 

This exhibition provides deep artistic and historical insights, making it both inspiring and enlightening. The scale and scope of this exhibition make it essential for understanding the evolution of Black art over the past century.

“When We See Us” at Kunstmuseum Basel. For a closer look, visit Kuntsmuseum’s page Kunstmuseum Basel - When We See Us – Kunstmuseum Basel 

“The Harlem Renaissance and Transatlantic Modernism” at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York

February 25 - July 28, 2024

At The Met, this exhibition brings the vibrancy of the Harlem Renaissance to life, showcasing how African American artists from the 1930s and 1940s modernized portrayals of the Black experience. Combining paintings, sculptures, photography, and works on paper, this vibrant exhibition reflects the era's explosive creativity. Walking through the galleries, you can almost hear the jazz music of Harlem’s golden age.

Why it’s a Must-See:

This exhibition pays tribute to the profound influence of the Harlem Renaissance on modern art, exploring Black identity and creativity through diverse and dynamic works. The dedication of an entire gallery to Aaron Douglas, the father of African American Art, underscores the importance of this era in shaping contemporary artistic expressions.

For those unable to travel to New York, dive into the Virtual Premiere Tour here.

“The Harlem Renaissance and Transatlantic Modernism” at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York (February 25 - July 28, 2024) To discover the art exhibition visit Met’s page

“Zanele Muholi” at Tate Modern, London

June 6, 2024 - January 26, 2025

Tate Modern hosts a powerful exhibition by Zanele Muholi, showcasing over 260 photographs that document and celebrate South Africa’s Black lesbian, gay, trans, queer, and intersex communities. Muholi’s powerful images capture moments of love, intimacy, and the harsh realities of violence and prejudice. Her early series, Only Half the Picture, presents a raw and unfiltered look at these communities, while Faces and Phases offers a powerful archive of defiant gazes.

Why it’s a Must-See:

Muholi’s work provides a raw and unfiltered look at identity and resilience, challenging societal norms and celebrating individuality through powerful photographic statements. The emotional depth and visual impact of her photographs make this exhibition profoundly moving and thought-provoking.

“Zanele Muholi” at Tate Modern. For a closer look, visit the Tate’s Modern page Zanele Muholi | Tate Modern

“Simone Leigh” at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art

May 26, 2024 - January 20, 2025

LACMA’s exhibition of Simone Leigh spans two decades of her innovative work, including ceramics, bronze sculptures, video, and installations. Leigh's work explores Black femme subjectivity and knowledge production through beautifully crafted forms that reference African art and architecture. The exhibition includes monumental ceramic sculptures, intricate bronze pieces, and immersive video installations.

Why it’s a Must-See:

Leigh’s ability to blend historical and cultural references with contemporary issues creates art that is both personal and universally resonant, offering a powerful and moving experience. Her mastery of diverse materials and techniques makes each piece a unique and captivating exploration of identity and resilience.

“Simone Leigh” at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. For a closer look, visit the LACMA’s page: Simone Leigh | LACMA

“From South Africa: New Voices” at Zeitz MOCAA, Cape Town

June 1 - September 30, 2024

Zeitz MOCAA highlights Berni Searle's work and creative process in a unique exhibition, that blends past and present, and features works and new ideas developed during her residency. Searle’s deeply personal and contextually rich pieces engage visitors with the city’s narratives and poetics. The exhibition includes a dedicated room for her moving image works, spaces for conversation and rest, photographic backdrops, and a central area for large-scale installations.

Why it’s a Must-See:

Searle’s dynamic and reflective approach transforms the studio into a space for creativity and engagement, offering a unique glimpse into one of South Africa’s most influential contemporary artists. Her ability to incorporate diverse skills and expertise into her work makes this exhibition a continually evolving and enriching experience.

“From South Africa: New Voices” at Zeitz MOCAA. For a closer look, visit Zeitz MOCAA’s page BERNI SEARLE: 'ON SITE' - Zeitz MOCAA

 

Explore these exceptional exhibitions and immerse yourself in the vibrant world of African contemporary art this summer. Each event offers unique narratives and innovative expressions from talented artists. Don’t miss out—visit UNX-ART to experience more remarkable works from anywhere. Dive in and discover your next artistic inspiration and share your thoughts with us on Instagram and Facebook!