The Evolution of African Oil Painting: From Traditional to Contemporary Artwork
Charcoal Paintings found on portable stones in domestic debris in the Apollo 11 cave in Namibia are said to be Africa’s oldest datable rock paintings. The craft of oil painting was introduced to Africa by white European explorers who traversed the continent’s vast terrain, capturing the beauty of the wildlife and landscapes they encountered. The landscape oil paintings of this era often portrayed an idealized view of Africa, an El Dorado, devoid of its original inhabitants but brimming with natural splendour and a promise of vibrant resources.
The impact of European arrival in Africa on African art was significant. However, it also showcased the resilience and adaptability of African artists. They didn’t just accept the new influences; they adapted their work to these new influences, creating hybrid styles that were a testament to their creativity and adaptability. This resilience and adaptability of African artists is truly inspiring, demonstrating their ability to turn adversity into opportunity.
The post-colonial period saw a resurgence of interest in traditional African art forms combined with contemporary techniques and themes. This was not a simple return to the past but a creative reclamation of cultural heritage. Artists like Malangatana Ngwenya from Mozambique, Skunder Boghossian from Ethiopia, and Ablade Glover from Ghana began to gain international recognition for their work. Their art, which often combined traditional African motifs with modern artistic techniques, resonated with the global audience and contributed significantly to the worldwide art scene. For instance, Malangatana Ngwenya’s ‘The Last Supper’ is a powerful depiction of the impact of colonialism on African culture, and it has been exhibited in major art galleries worldwide.
Today, the world of African painting is a vibrant tapestry reflecting the continent’s complex history and contemporary issues. Artists explore a wide range of themes, from traditional folklore and identity to political struggles and urban life. The diversity is staggering and a testament to Africa’s rich cultural landscape. This diversity of themes in contemporary African paintings will intrigue and engage any art enthusiast, offering a rich and varied experience.
Some features of African oil paintings make them stand out in today’s art market. The slow-drying properties of oil painting allow artists to make changes or add variations to their work, resulting in a unique and dynamic piece. The process of mixing pigments with a drying oil, like linseed oil, leads to a stunning finish, making oil paintings a preferred choice for many artists and art lovers. Another reason oil paintings are valued as an investment is because they appreciate over time. Their value can go up or down depending on factors like the artist’s popularity, the painting’s age, and the current market conditions. Oil paintings are also a good way to hedge against inflation, as the prices of oil paintings increase when the cost of living increases. They are also portable and easy to move around, making them a versatile and potentially lucrative investment.
Famous African artists skilled in oil painting include Olumide Oresegun, a 35-year-old whose hyperrealistic oil paintings trended the internet some years back. Oresegun says that since his art went viral, he has received many international inquiries about his work and also from local galleries and collectors in his hometown of Lagos. Other artists include Rudi Cartsens, Bridgette Allan, Don Bell, and Ronnie Biccard.
At the African Gift Shop, we are dedicated to promoting the prestige and heritage of African culture through our diverse collection of oil on canvas paintings. Each painting in our collection is a unique expression of Africa’s rich cultural heritage. We take immense pride in our role as a platform for African artists to showcase their talent and creativity.
To view our collection of artwork, please visit the African Gift Shop (www.myafricangiftshop.com), the haven of hand-crafted and unique African-themed gift items. As a black-owned business, we are unwavering in our commitment to offering only authentic African-themed gifts, ensuring that your purchase truly represents the African culture.
We invite you to experience the authenticity and beauty of our bespoke, handmade items at the African Gift Shop. Visit us at www.myafricangiftshop.com to explore our unique collection of African-inspired gifts and paintings. We look forward to sharing the beauty of African art with you.
