Historically, women have been discriminated against in African society, both in art and in other aspects of life. For a long time, they were under-represented or even absent from African artistic production, especially in terms of visual representation.

Contemporary African art, however, has seen a significant increase in female representation, with women artists taking a prominent role on the art scene. These artists are breaking down traditions that discriminated against women and creating a new vision, of contemporary African art, that celebrates the female experience and issues that affect women.

One of the reasons why female representation in contemporary African art is important is because it challenges the stereotypical view many people have of African women. In traditional African art, women were often portrayed as mothers or wives who play a secondary role in society, while in contemporary art these representations are challenged by presenting women as independent and powerful people.

Helping to combat sexism and gender discrimination in society, is another reason. By showing women in positions of power and influence in art, artists are inspiring other women to take similar positions in other areas of life and contributing to the creation of a more equal society in which women are valued and respected.

The other reason, why female representation in contemporary African art is important, is because it helps preserve the history and culture of African women. Artworks created by female artists often represent subjects that are important to women, such as motherhood, female identity and social issues that affect African women. By representing these subjects in art, female artists are supporting the preservation of African women's history and culture, which have often been neglected.

In summary, female representation in contemporary African art is extremely important for several reasons. It helps to combat gender discrimination, preserve African women's history and culture, and challenge the stereotypical view many people have of African women. As more women artists take a prominent role in the African art scene, we hope to see more positive changes in society in general.

Visit our gallery and get to know our African women artists as well as their amazing work.