Modern and Contemporary African Art

Modern and Contemporary African Art

In this course, we examine the development of artistic modernisms in Africa in historical context. We also study the content, production, patronage, and display of modern and contemporary African art. In doing so, we consider African artists' engagement with modernity, globalization, and contemporary issues, as well as interrogate influential myths and assumptions regarding African artists and the work they produce. Course themes include the workshop as a critical site, independence movements and the creation of national art forms, art as global commodity, and art in resistance, remembrance, and revolution.