Contemporary African art eschews general descriptions. Artists have used a variety of media, from oil to screen printing, and methods ranging from casting brass to processing the ancient lost wax to welding tin and other metals into sculpture.
Traditionalists such as the Lamidi Fakeye produce sculptures and wood carvings in classic African designs. Larger groups work in the more modern styles of Cubism, Surrealism and Expressionism while others seek purely personal styles.
Many African artists were trained in European and American schools; others believe that only in their home environment can they achieve true African expression. You can explore some renowned exhibitions in New York to know more contemporary art.
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In Nigeria, for example, the national artistic tradition is strong and ubiquitous, although hindered by the influence of European colonialism and the zeal of Christianity and Muslims. In many other countries, traditional arts have almost succumbed to this power.
Thus, a contemporary work of art is classified as African art only on the basis of the nationality of the artist and not on the basis of a particular style, object, purpose or setting.
The Harmon Foundation, a private charity helped raise awareness of African art. Although their first project was to fund parks and playgrounds, and provide student loans, the foundation's flexible structure has proven to support a wide range of activities, including the arts.
The foundation's interest in contemporary African art grew spontaneously. His first contact with Africa came through a series of three films commissioned by the Foundation in the 1930s about local life and tribal customs and Christian missionary work in Africa.