December 30th 2023.
In the spirit of Kwanzaa, Pan African culture and liberation are being explored and embraced around the world. From poets to sculptors, the Pan African Art movement of the early 20th century has inspired a new generation of artists to explore themes related to African culture and history. These artists strive to honor the three principles of Kwanzaa: Nia, Kuumba, and Imani, which seek to unite African cultures and promote a shared identity, history, and expression.
The era also saw the emergence of African art festivals, such as the World Festival of Negro Arts in Senegal in 1966 and the Second World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture in Lagos, Nigeria, in 1977. Notable figures of the time included Cuban artist Wifredo Lam, Ghanaian artist El Anatsui, and Ethiopian artist Gebre Kristos Desta. This era of the movement continues to promote the legacy of shared African identity.
There are several prominent creatives who are continuing to immortalize the successes of the past and building the modern Pan-African movement. Botswana-born artist Meleko Mokgosi is well-praised for his multimedia works that explore Pan-Africanism and postcolonial moments. His works include “Pan-African Pulp” and “The Ease of Fiction.” Kadija George Sesay is a British scholar, literary activist, editor and publisher, and founder of “SABLE LitMag” and “SABLE LitFest.” Her work includes the anthology “Filigree” and the Mboka Festival of Arts, Culture and Sport in The Gambia. Akinsanya Kambon is a Pan-African artist, activist, former Black Panther, and co-owner of a Pan-African art studio and gallery. His works embody stories of violence and revolution from throughout Africa and the Americas.
The Pan-African movement is an important part of history that continues to influence today’s art scene. Through this movement, African cultures and identities are celebrated and shared around the world.
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