Paper
“A New Journey in the Eastern Pearl”: African Contemporary Arts on China’s Cultural Landscape
presenters
TIAN Chen
Nationality: Hong Kong
Residence: South Africa
Wubuntu
Presence:Face to Face/ On Site
When 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair, the pioneering international fair dedicated to contemporary art by African and African diaspora artists, announced its first exhibition in Hong Kong in March 2024, it accurately proclaimed the show as “A New Journey in the Eastern Pearl”. This paper explores the dynamic intersection of African contemporary art and Chinese cultural landscapes, emphasizing various significant roles played by artists, collectors, galleries, and cultural institutions. An ethnographic analysis of recent art campaigns, exhibitions, art fairs, and artist collaborations highlights the increasing visibility of African contemporary art in China. It not only challenges and enriches traditional perceptions of Chinese people about Africa, but also fosters mutual understanding and appreciation between the two continents. Cultural synergy presents challenges and opportunities, including representation, authenticity, and commercialization. It is argued that African contemporary art's burgeoning presence in China provides a powerful opportunity for intercultural dialogue, thereby making global art more accessible and interconnected.
Keywords:
African art, contemporary art, China, cultural exchange