There is no standard way of referring to art. It ranges from modern paintings, to photography, sculptures and dates decades back to oil and silk screenings, and popularly; wax paintings. The manner in which people express themselves has not been celebrated enough in Africa. A plethora of creators spent time in more Western and European settings, therefore, some lose their roots, or are unable to achieve pieces that celebrate the Africa that flows in their blood as constant and as loudly as the Nile flows through the North into the Mediterranean. We have succumb to viewing the pieces created by those among us as inadequate or as needing a western feel, instead of emphasizing and putting a stamp on the fact that this is who we are and that this is our culture.

Innovative visionaries in our continent live and breathe creating content. Each day, we look past artists on accessible platforms, but wait for them to be acknowledged by international press before we put them on a pedestal. Captured brilliance deserves to be laminated and published with pride because our culture and creations should not have to be approved by anyone but us. Thus, the title of this article; invoking a healthy outlook on contemporary art. With 54 countries in our continent, there are waves of content for us to blissfully drown in, and not have to consume any other creations.

The multiple tribes and cultures in our nation result in a plethora of social differences. These differences are what make us unique. We possess the ability to create strides of beauty more diverse than most can come up with. These diversifications are a result of beauty as far West as Ghana, up from the North, across central towards the East and Tanzania, and finally in the enclave that is Lesotho, in the South. Artists whose presence we must amplify are the likes of Trevor Stuurman, who started in South Africa and remained true to himself and his art, and finally made it on the international marketing, penetrating the global sphere. Trevor has worked with brands ranging from Conde Nast, the well acclaimed media company that has Vogue and CN Traveller under its belt. His creations and collaborations have been featured in most publications and he has gained a large following from this. Locally, he has worked with the brand Maxhosa, which is also racking up accolades as they go in Africa. Local collaborations among artists must be encouraged for each of our nurturing’s to grow.

@paulboypaul_

Courtesy of Paul Gugulethu

The talent in our mother land is more than abundant. May we continue create and may we soar higher while maintaining African art positivity!

Written By Dille Neenah Molapo

A Captivating Tale of Love, Sacrifice, and Identity

In a world filled with literature that explores the complexities of human emotions and experiences, “The Joys of Motherhood” by Buchi Emecheta stands as an absolute gem. Published in 1979, this powerful novel takes readers on an emotional journey through the life of Nnu Ego, a Nigerian woman grappling with the joys and challenges of motherhood amidst a backdrop of cultural expectations and societal shifts. Emecheta’s poignant storytelling and vivid portrayal of a mother’s journey make this book an absolute must-read.

A Glimpse into Nnu Ego’s World:

Set against the backdrop of 20th-century Nigeria, “The Joys of Motherhood” introduces us to Nnu Ego, a young woman who dreams of a life filled with happiness, love, and motherhood. However, as she embarks on her journey of marriage and raising a family, she soon discovers that her dreams come at a price.

Emecheta beautifully captures the intricate web of emotions that accompany motherhood. From the initial exhilaration of bringing life into the world to the selfless sacrifices made for the sake of one’s children, Nnu Ego’s story resonates with readers on a deeply personal level. The author’s ability to evoke empathy and understanding through her writing is truly captivating.

Navigating Culture and Identity:

One of the most compelling aspects of this novel is its exploration of culture and identity. Emecheta skillfully portrays the clash between tradition and modernity, as Nnu Ego finds herself torn between the customs of her Igbo heritage and the changing world around her. Through her struggles and triumphs, we witness the resilience and strength of a woman determined to find her place in a society undergoing rapid transformation.

The Challenges of Motherhood:

Emecheta’s masterful storytelling delves into the often unspoken difficulties faced by mothers. As Nnu Ego navigates the challenges of raising her children in poverty and facing societal pressures, readers are confronted with the harsh realities of motherhood. Emecheta’s ability to weave heart-wrenching moments of despair with glimmers of hope makes the emotional impact of this book truly profound.

“The Joys of Motherhood” is a book that captures the essence of what it means to be a mother, a woman, and a human being. Buchi Emecheta’s powerful prose invites readers into the world of Nnu Ego, where they witness the complexities of love, sacrifice, and the pursuit of one’s identity. This novel is not only an exploration of motherhood but also a reflection on the human experience as a whole.

Through her compelling narrative and thought-provoking themes, Emecheta has created a literary masterpiece that continues to resonate with readers even decades after its

publication. If you are seeking a book that will touch your heart, challenge your perceptions, and leave you with a renewed sense of empathy, “The Joys of Motherhood” is an absolute must-read. Prepare to be captivated by Emecheta’s storytelling prowess and embark on a transformative journey that will stay with you long after you turn the final page.

By Vanessa Mwingira