Michelle Okpare

"Michelle Okpare’s work merges memory, emotion, and materiality to explore contemporary African identity and womanhood. She transforms crepe paper, acrylic, and recycled lace into textured, vibrant compositions that challenge beauty standards and reflect personal and societal experiences. Her pieces balance imagination and reality, creating expressive, layered narratives that speak to mental health, cultural identity, and the complexities of human emotion."

MEET

Michelle Okpare

Michelle Okpare (b. 1996, Nigeria) is a visual artist raised between Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire. Her expressionist mixed-media practice—using crepe paper, acrylic, and recycled lace—draws on childhood memories to explore identity, mental health, and gender in contemporary African society.

She has exhibited internationally and been featured in outlets such as Vanity Fair Italia and Sunday Times South Africa, with work documented on Google Arts & Culture. Okpare lives and works in Lagos, Nigeria.

FROM OUR BLOGUE

2025: The Year of African Contemporary Art – Trends and Opportunities for Collectors

2025 is set to be a transformative year for African contemporary art. This article explores the key trends, including sustainability, digital innovations, identity narratives, brand collaborations, and growing institutional recognition. It also highlights practical opportunities for collectors, from investing in emerging talent to exploring new markets.

Rómulo Santa Rita & Cosal: The Creation of the Best Superbrands 2024 Cover

In the world of contemporary art, collaborations between brands and artists can result in works that blend artistic creativity with corporate identity. A successful example of this union was the collaboration between Afrikanizm Art and Grupo Cosal, which culminated in the creation of the winning cover for the 2024 edition of Superbrands Angola.

Brands with Art: The Collaboration between Don Sebas Cassule and RCS Angola

The ‘RCS Special Edition’ is a shining example of how art can communicate and reinforce a company's mission and values, making complex concepts tangible and inspiring those who come into contact with these pieces.

How to Start a Collection of Contemporary African Art: A Guide for New Collectors

Starting an art collection is an exciting and transformative journey. However, when it comes to contemporary African art, many potential collectors may feel intimidated or uncertain about where to start. This article offers a practical guide for those wishing to start collecting, with a special focus on contemporary African art.

Intersections #3

The 3rd edition of the "Intersections" exhibition, which ran from 12 to 14 July, was a real success, celebrating Angola's vibrant contemporary art and offering attendees an unforgettable experience. The exhibition was supported by several brands that presented innovative experiences during the pre-opening. Read on to find out more

Art with Impact: Study visit to the Afro Renaissance exhibition

As part of our "Art with Impact" series, we explore how art can transform perspectives and foster meaningful dialogue. During the "Afro Renaissance" exhibition at Quinta da Fidalga, we had the joy of receiving guided tours from various institutions. One visit in particular stands out: a school that brought three classes - two pre-schoolers and a third grader.

Brands with Art: Rómulo Santa Rita and the Cosal Group

On the vibrant African contemporary art scene, collaborations between artists and brands have become a powerful way of telling stories and creating meaningful connections. One notable example is the partnership between renowned Angolan artist Rómulo Santa Rita and the Cosal Group, which resulted in the creation of the cover for the book "Superbrands Angola 2023".

Meet our Women Power

These 12 extraordinary women bring their unique voices to the contemporary art scene, enriching our platform and the art world with their distinct and innovative perspectives. By celebrating their achievements, we join together in promoting a more inclusive and diverse artistic environment, where women's voices are heard, respected and celebrated.

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