African Modernist Artists Notes

Contemporary African art was primarily viewed as sociological commentary, not serious creative expression.

Nigerian painter and sculptor.
Most influential African artist of the 20th century.
Pioneered postcolonial proliferation and visibility of modern African art.
Quote (1989): Rejects being labeled as merely "African" and inferior. Points out European artists like Picasso were influenced by African art without opposition, while African artists with European training are expected to stick to traditional forms.
Acknowledges influence from artists like Giacometti but emphasizes influence from his own ancestors, not a direct imitation.
Quote (1950): Art is dynamic, not static like culture. Expecting African art to remain unchanged is setting back the clock. African art has always evolved, adapting to new circumstances, even before Western influence.
Artwork: Agbogbho Mmuo (Masquerade), 1972.
Artwork: Untitled, 1978.
Artwork: Negritude, 1957: Expresses Blackness and celebrates the Black image.
Negritude: Enwonwu drew inspiration from traditional dances and colors from his home in Onitsha.
Artwork: Africa Dances, 1964.
Artwork: Princes of Mali, 1976.

Léopold Senghor: Poet, politician, cultural theorist, first president of Senegal (1960-1980).
Founded the World Festival of Black Arts (FESMAN) in 1966, themed “Significance of Black art in the Life of People and for the People.”
Second festival in Lagos, Nigeria (1977), themed “Black Civilisation and Education.”
Negritude is a process of negotiation, valorizing and celebrating the African personality through counter-myths and readings of stereotypes.

Combines painting and drawing, using motifs from African, Arab, and Islamic art, as well as Western references.
Foremost visual artist of the