Barry Yusufu

Nigeria

Figurative Painting, Contemporary Portraiture and Visual Narratives by Barry Yusufu

African Identity, Intimacy and the “Bronze Skin” Aesthetic

Contemporary African Figurative Art Collectors and Emerging Nigerian Painters

"Yusufu’s work reflects on love, hope, brotherhood, and culture, offering portraits that honour the identity and inherent beauty of his subjects. Emerging from an early questioning of absence—of figures like his own within art history—his practice has evolved into a deliberate act of presence, presenting Black lives with candour, dignity, and quiet affirmation."

MEET

Barry Yusufu

Barry Yusufu is a Nigerian artist whose practice centres on figurative portraiture. Self-taught and professionally active since 2017, he has worked across acrylics, oils, papier maché, and unconventional materials such as coffee. His explorations led to the development of distinct visual languages, most notably the widely recognised Bronze Skin technique.

FROM OUR BLOGUE
Redefining Legacy: Jorge M. &  Darlene Pérez Donate 36 Works by African and Diaspora Artists to Tate

Collectors and philanthropists Jorge M. Pérez and Darlene Pérez have donated 36 artworks by African and African diaspora artists to the Tate. The major gift underscores institutions’ increasing commitment to diversifying their collections and elevating underrepresented voices.Collectors and philanthropists Jorge M. Pérez and Darlene Pérez have donated 36 artworks by African and African diaspora artists to the Tate. The major gift underscores institutions’ increasing commitment to diversifying their collections and elevating underrepresented voices.

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Global Media: The World is Watching Afrikanizm

Afrikanizm Art, the Luso‑Angolan platform for contemporary African and Afro‑diasporic art, has formalised partnerships with galleries in the United States, Europe, Africa, and Asia. These alliances will integrate gallery networks with Afrikanizm’s digital platform, amplify artists’ reach, and support collaborative exhibitions. It's a bold step in positioning Black art not on the margins, but at the centre of the global art market.


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Abidjan’s New Wave: Young Artists Shaping Ivory Coast’s Creative Future

Abidjan is experiencing a vibrant artistic renaissance, fuelled by new galleries, residencies and state funding. A “new wave” of artists — from Carl-Edouard Keïta’s revival of Goumbé traditions to Mimi Brignon’s urban collages, Adjoba Marie’s surrealist self-portraits, Massa-Chula’s powerful mask reinterpretations, and Angelo N’Guessan’s street murals — is reshaping Ivory Coast’s cultural identity. Together, they place Abidjan at the forefront of Contemporary African Art and the global conversation on Black Art.

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