Michelle Okpare

A fresh wave of scholarship and exhibition is reclaiming overlooked Black artists and sitters—from a 17th-century portrait in England to mid-20th-century Nigerian modernism—revealing gaps in European collections and challenging Eurocentric art history.

This article highlights essential readings—books, exhibition catalogues, and journals—that are indispensable for collectors, scholars, and art lovers interested in contemporary African art. From foundational texts to new voices, this guide celebrates African creativity in all its diversity.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art's Michael C. Rockefeller Wing reopens on May 31, 2025, featuring newly reimagined African Art galleries. The exhibition presents over 500 works, including new acquisitions and contemporary pieces, offering visitors an enriched perspective on sub-Saharan African artistic traditions.

Following the sudden passing of curator Koyo Kouoh, the 2026 Venice Biennale will honour her legacy by presenting “In Minor Keys,” an exhibition that reflects her commitment to nuanced narratives and the sensate in contemporary art.

"Head to Toe," on view until January 19, 2026, at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, presents a curated selection of African wearable art from the Ira and Myrna Brind Collection. The exhibition delves into the materials, craftsmanship, and cultural meanings of adornments from various African communities.

On view from May 30 to June 29, 2025, at Niza Knoll Gallery in Denver, "Not Another Black Art Show" features works by Johnny Draco, Joseph Graves, Jasmine Holmes, Angel Tirado, Devin Urioste, and curator Tyree Jones-Evans. The exhibition invites viewers to explore the multifaceted nature of Black identity through varied artistic expressions.

Contemporary African art is deeply rooted in the continent's rich history and diverse traditions. This article delves into how historical narratives, spiritual beliefs, and traditional aesthetics inform and inspire modern African artists, creating a dynamic interplay between the past and present.

The term "Black fatigue," originally describing the exhaustion from systemic racism, is being co-opted to justify the art world's retreat from Black representation. This article examines the implications of this shift and the need for genuine, sustained support for Black artists.