Armand Boua

"Armand Boua’s work powerfully reflects the resilience of urban life through layered compositions that merge painting, collage, and abstraction. Using tar, acrylic, newsprint, and recycled cardboard, he applies and strips away material to reveal ghostly silhouettes that evoke the lives of street children. In works like Chien Errant (2022), figures emerge and fade within textured, muted surfaces, transforming decay into beauty. Boua’s distinctive technique balances social critique with human tenderness, offering a poetic reflection on memory, marginalization, and the enduring strength of the human spirit."

MEET

Armand Boua

Armand Boua, born in Abidjan in 1978, is an Ivorian visual artist whose work powerfully reflects the lives of street children in his hometown. A graduate of the National School of Fine Arts of the Ivory Coast, he uses tar, acrylic, newsprint, and recycled materials—often on cardboard, symbolizing the fragile surfaces orphans sleep on—to create layered, textured portraits that expose the violence and social struggles of West Africa. Balancing raw execution with emotional depth, Boua’s paintings evoke both brutality and tenderness, capturing the resilience of his subjects. His work has been exhibited internationally in London, Dubai, New York, Stockholm, and Abidjan, and is held in the Minneapolis Institute of Art.

FROM OUR BLOGUE

Black Art vs African Art

Artistic expressions have the remarkable power to embody cultures, narratives and experiences. When exploring the vast artistic landscape, two terms often come up: Black art and African art. While they may sound similar, they represent distinct realms of creativity with unique historical, cultural and geographical contexts.

Breaking Barriers: The Resurgence Of African Art In Galleries

The representation of African artists in galleries and other art institutions has long been a concern in the art world. Despite the rich and diverse artistic traditions emanating from the African continent, significant challenges impede the inclusion and recognition of African artists in international galleries.

The Role of African Art in Promoting Cultural Exchange and Diversity.

African art, with its rich diversity of styles and cultural expressions, plays a pivotal role in promoting cultural exchange and diversity. This universal language transcends borders and challenges stereotypes, providing a nuanced understanding of Africa's varied cultures.

The Current State of Contemporary African Art, Trends and Challenges.

The market for Contemporary African Art has experienced an increase in interest and demand in recent years, with a growing number of collectors and investors around the world recognising the value and importance of contemporary African art.

Afrikanizm Art on Seedstars' programme

Laura Leal, co-founder of Afrikanizm, joins Seedstars' program aimed at empowering women entrepreneurs in Africa. This initiative provides essential tools, resources, and mentorship to address the unique challenges faced by women entrepreneurs on the continent, fostering a supportive community and offering valuable networking and training opportunities.

"I Chose to Be Black" - Interview with Munyaneza Henry

Explore the impactful "I Chose to be BLACK" collection by Rwandan artist Munyaneza Henry, exclusively presented by Afrikanizm. In this exclusive interview, get to know the artist, his inspiration, and the powerful message behind this collection. Munyaneza's vibrant art tells a story of resilience and unity, challenging limiting mindsets and celebrating African identity.

How African Women are changing The Narrative of Contemporary Art

African women artists are reshaping the contemporary art scene by challenging stereotypes, experimenting with new techniques, sharing personal narratives, and fostering a supportive community. Explore their impactful work in our artists' section, where their stories and art await your engagement.

Female Representation in Contemporary African Art

Female representation in contemporary African art is challenging stereotypes, combatting gender discrimination, and preserving the history and culture of African women. Explore the remarkable work of African women artists in our gallery to witness their contributions to art and society.

View All