On the upcoming 25th of October, art enthusiasts and collectors alike can look forward to the highly-anticipated “Modern & Contemporary African and Middle Eastern Art Auction.” This auction is set to feature a remarkable array of works by acclaimed artists and promising newcomers from various countries, such as Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Sudan, South Africa, and Egypt. Notably, many of the pieces presented are new to the market, promising a fresh and exciting perspective on art. The art on display will delve into themes of cultural heritage, identity, and post-colonialization. Estimated prices for the artworks range from £200 to £20,000.
Among the treasures to be auctioned is the striking acrylic on canvas piece titled ‘Hugging,’ by Tanzanian artist Robino Ntila (1953-2020). This vibrant abstract work is estimated to sell for £700 to £900. Ntila, originally from Ndanda in the Mtwara Region of southern Tanzania, moved to Dar es Salaam in the 1970s. He honed his craft at the Nyumba ya Sanaa (House of Art) Artists Association, learning printmaking, painting, batik, woodcuts, and more. Ntila is celebrated as one of the foremost artists in these fields in eastern and southern Africa.
Ivorian designer and poet Frédéric Bruly Bouabré (1923 – 2014) contributes a powerful piece, ‘Connaissance du Monde,’ created with crayon and pen on card, with an estimated value of £3,000 to £5,000. Bouabré’s visionary experience in 1948 led him to become Sheikh Nadro, the one who does not forget. Inspired by this vision, he invented the Bété alphabet, a syllabary comprising 448 signs, designed to transcribe and preserve the history of his local tribe, recording their folklore, religion, culture, and philosophy. His artworks, brightly colored pictograms with captions, are a testament to his commitment to preserving cultural heritage and provide commentary on topics such as colonialism and modern society.
Peter Clarke (1929-2014), another featured artist, hails from Simon’s Town, Western Cape. Clarke’s life was marked by apartheid-era restrictions; nevertheless, he continued to pursue his artistic passion. In 1961, as a ‘colored’ student, he was not allowed to study full-time at a ‘white’ institution. Despite these obstacles, he studied etching at the Michaelis School of Fine Art at the University of Cape Town and also attended courses in Amsterdam and Oslo. Clarke’s work, ‘Tranquil Sea,’ created in brush and ink and watercolor, is estimated to fetch £2,000 to £4,000. His story is a testament to the power of art and perseverance.
The auction also includes ‘A Shepherd (Portrait of a Man Sitting Under a Tree)’ by Youssed Kamel (Egyptian 1890-1971), a remarkable oil painting on panel with an estimated value. Furthermore, the event will showcase numerous works by a wide range of artists, including Lovemore Kambudzi (Zimbabwean b. 1978), Ablade Glover (Ghanaian b. 1934), Hendrick Lilanga (Tanzanian b. 1974), and many more, from various countries in Africa and the Middle East. Each piece offers a rich narrative that resonates with collectors and art enthusiasts.
Additionally, the auction will feature a selection from the collection of Dr. Mohammed Said Farsi, a notable philanthropist and supporter of the arts in the Middle East. This is a rare opportunity to acquire artwork with a profound cultural impact and historical significance.
Janet Rady, a respected figure in the art world, expresses her enthusiasm for the diversity of works presented in this auction. The artworks, primarily from private collections, showcase the extraordinary talents of artists from across Africa and the Middle East. The event promises to be a captivating journey through the rich tapestry of culture, history, and artistic expression.
For further information and details about the auction, please visit Olympia Auctions. Don’t miss the chance to explore the stories and creativity of artists from two vibrant regions.
