Curating an issue about art is exhilarating but not nearly as daunting as curating an art exhibition. Nobody knows this better than Executive Director Client Advisory at Strauss & Co., Khetiwe McClain. For our September issue dedicated to celebrating the future of art, and the artists moving the needle on the continent and beyond, Khetiwe has shared her insights and voice.
From the inspired contemporary work of Banele Khoza at the BKhz Gallery to the artful digital innovation of Kay Kay Ribane at Usurpa, this issue is filled with the best in African artistry. YOURLUXURY AFRICA is proud to be the media partner at this year’s Art Joburg so make sure to visit our curated Lounge at the Sandton Convention Centre for luxury, bubbles and art.
A WORD FROM….KHETIWE MCCLAIN
The art world is rapidly evolving thanks to the developments in key trends such as digital technologies, sustainability, experiential art, diversity, and globalisation. Africa’s rich cultural heritage and contemporary art scene are influencing these global changes. One of today’s most exciting trends is the rise of digital and AI-generated art. As much as it’s exciting, it’s not short of challenges – copywriting being one of them. African artists are harnessing digital platforms to create and share their work, exploring themes such as identity, history, and the future through new technologies. The Afrofuturism movement, which combines African history, culture, advanced technology, and science fiction, is gaining traction across the African continent, and allows artists to experiment and break boundaries. Names that come to mind include Nigerian artist Malik Afegbua, Kenyan digital artist Osborne Macharia and our own Thekiso Mokhele.
As global environmental issues become increasingly urgent, African artists are leading the way by addressing the concerns of climate change, deforestation, and pollution by using recycled materials. We see this in the works of the likes of El Anatsui, Mo at Takadiwa, Mbongeni Buthelezi, and the recent winner of the Cassirer Welz Award, Tawanda Takura. Awareness and importance of diversity and inclusion are progressively gaining prominence in the art world. After centuries of erasure and invisibility, today we recognise the importance of including the voices of the marginalised. This is underpinned by a deeper understanding that art can challenge societal norms and promote social change.
Historically, African artists have been under-represented in the global art market, but this is changing. Institutions, galleries, and art fairs worldwide are displaying more African art and artists. Most recently, this year’s Venice Art Biennale saw many African countries participating, with 13 having official pavilions. We’re also seeing more African artists embrace immersive and experiential art, designing installations and performances that invite the audience to participate in or immerse themselves in the artwork itself. These experiences often draw on the continent’s rich traditions of storytelling.
An exhilarating example I recently experienced was in the Benin Pavilion at the Venice Biennale, where Romuald Hazoumè’s center piece featured his signature masks using petrol containers; the use of found objects was so cleverly executed. As you page through this issue of YourLuxury Africa, you’ll see how our artists are contributing their unique insights and innovations to the global art scene. As these dynamics continue to unfold, Africa’s influence is poised to grow, o ffering new perspectives on art, culture, and society.
