L'ARCHIVISTE

A digital archive for African Contemporary art
We archive, preserve, and present African creativity through art, writing, and intentional curation.
From Bantu and West African  heritage to modern expression.  

THE ARCHIVE

August 1, 2025
Leandro Mbomio: “The Black Picasso”

Leandro Mbomio Nsue, often called “The Black Picasso,” was a groundbreaking sculptor from Equatorial Guinea whose work merged Bantu identity with European technique. Trained in Spain and connected to figures like Salvador Dalí, Mbomio used his art to explore themes of power, memory, and African pride.

July 4, 2025
La Sapologie: Style as an Art Form

La Sapologie is more than bold suits and bright colours; it’s a culture where style becomes a living art form. Born from a colonial past, the Sapeurs turned European dress codes into something personal and powerful. From Brazzaville to Kinshasa, they continually reinvent what luxury means, blending designer pieces with local touches. This is a style of pride, resistance, and a reminder that fashion can rewrite history.

June 20, 2025
Cornelius Annor Jr.: Weaving Memory Into Art

Ghanaian artist Cornelius Annor Jr. (b. 1990) creates portraits that feel like memory. In a space where African art is often expected to be loud or political, Annor offers something more intimate. This piece explores his background, visual language, and the significance of his perspective today.

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