Art Dubai, the esteemed international art fair in the Middle East, welcomed back the prestigious Efie Gallery for its second consecutive year between the first and third of March 2024, displaying a captivating display of contemporary African artistry. Booth B14 served as the stage for Efie Gallery's latest offerings, featuring a lineup of renowned artists including El Anatsui, Aïda Muluneh, Maggie Otieno, and Yaw Owusu.
Nestled within Dubai's Al Quoz Creative Zone, Efie Gallery epitomizes innovation and cultural exchange, enriching the city's burgeoning art scene. With a steadfast dedication to amplifying the voices of African artists, the gallery continues to pave the way for a more diverse and inclusive artistic landscape.
Amina Kadous, Hajj Ali Home, White Gold Series, 2021. 60 x 40 cm. Edition of 15 + 3AP. Fine Art Archival Paper. Courtesy of Efie Gallery and Artist
At the heart of Efie Gallery's showcase were the striking new works by globally acclaimed artist El Anatsui. Renowned for his ingenious use of discarded materials, Anatsui's latest creations offered a captivating exploration of form and texture. Complementing his pieces were works by award-winning photographer Aïda Muluneh, sculptor Maggie Otieno, and multidisciplinary artist Yaw Owusu, reaffirming the gallery's commitment to championing diverse voices from across Africa and its diaspora.
El Anaitsu record collection. Courtesy of Efie Gallery and Artist.
Running parallel to the booth display was the thought-provoking group exhibition titled "Elastic Visions," curated by Faridah Folawiyo. Spanning from February 27th to May 27th, this meticulously curated exhibition delved into the complex interplay of influences shaping contemporary African art. Through a diverse selection of works, "Elastic Visions" challenged traditional notions of cultural superiority, inviting audiences to reconsider the dynamic nature of artistic expression.
Highlighting the exhibition was a debut public display of over 70 vinyl records from El Anatsui's personal collection. Accompanied by early sketches and ephemera, this presentation offered a unique insight into the cultural influences that have shaped Anatsui's illustrious career, bridging the worlds of visual art and music in a captivating exploration of creativity.
Kesewa Aboah, A Lightness 5 (2023). Courtesy of Efie Gallery and Artist.
Kwame Mintah, director of Efie Gallery, expressed his enthusiasm for the gallery's role in Art Dubai, emphasizing the importance of showcasing African artists on the global stage. Curator Faridah Folawiyo underscored the exhibition's aim to challenge established narratives and foster inclusivity within the art world.
Since its establishment in 2021, Efie Gallery has emerged as a leading platform for African artists, fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas and perspectives. With its presence at Art Dubai and its ongoing commitment to supporting creative talent, the gallery continues to shape the future of contemporary art in the Middle East and beyond.
Cédric Kouamé, Ladies at Wedding 9 (2018). Courtesy of Efie Gallery and the Artist.
Courtesy of Efie Gallery and the artists.
Art Dubai, the esteemed international art fair in the Middle East, welcomed back the prestigious Efie Gallery for its second consecutive year between the first and third of March 2024, displaying a captivating display of contemporary African artistry. Booth B14 served as the stage for Efie Gallery's latest offerings, featuring a lineup of renowned artists including El Anatsui, Aïda Muluneh, Maggie Otieno, and Yaw Owusu.
Nestled within Dubai's Al Quoz Creative Zone, Efie Gallery epitomizes innovation and cultural exchange, enriching the city's burgeoning art scene. With a steadfast dedication to amplifying the voices of African artists, the gallery continues to pave the way for a more diverse and inclusive artistic landscape.
Amina Kadous, Hajj Ali Home, White Gold Series, 2021. 60 x 40 cm. Edition of 15 + 3AP. Fine Art Archival Paper. Courtesy of Efie Gallery and Artist
At the heart of Efie Gallery's showcase were the striking new works by globally acclaimed artist El Anatsui. Renowned for his ingenious use of discarded materials, Anatsui's latest creations offered a captivating exploration of form and texture. Complementing his pieces were works by award-winning photographer Aïda Muluneh, sculptor Maggie Otieno, and multidisciplinary artist Yaw Owusu, reaffirming the gallery's commitment to championing diverse voices from across Africa and its diaspora.
El Anaitsu record collection. Courtesy of Efie Gallery and Artist.
Running parallel to the booth display was the thought-provoking group exhibition titled "Elastic Visions," curated by Faridah Folawiyo. Spanning from February 27th to May 27th, this meticulously curated exhibition delved into the complex interplay of influences shaping contemporary African art. Through a diverse selection of works, "Elastic Visions" challenged traditional notions of cultural superiority, inviting audiences to reconsider the dynamic nature of artistic expression.
Highlighting the exhibition was a debut public display of over 70 vinyl records from El Anatsui's personal collection. Accompanied by early sketches and ephemera, this presentation offered a unique insight into the cultural influences that have shaped Anatsui's illustrious career, bridging the worlds of visual art and music in a captivating exploration of creativity.
Kesewa Aboah, A Lightness 5 (2023). Courtesy of Efie Gallery and Artist.
Kwame Mintah, director of Efie Gallery, expressed his enthusiasm for the gallery's role in Art Dubai, emphasizing the importance of showcasing African artists on the global stage. Curator Faridah Folawiyo underscored the exhibition's aim to challenge established narratives and foster inclusivity within the art world.
Since its establishment in 2021, Efie Gallery has emerged as a leading platform for African artists, fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas and perspectives. With its presence at Art Dubai and its ongoing commitment to supporting creative talent, the gallery continues to shape the future of contemporary art in the Middle East and beyond.
Cédric Kouamé, Ladies at Wedding 9 (2018). Courtesy of Efie Gallery and the Artist.
Courtesy of Efie Gallery and the artists.
