Collecting African Art - A beginner's Ultimate Guide

If you’ve ever been captivated by the vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and rich cultural stories of African art, you’re not alone. Diving into African art isn’t just about acquiring beautiful pieces—it's about connecting with the soul of a continent rich in culture, history, and creativity. Whether you’re a newbie or just curious, this guide will help you start your adventure with a splash of excitement and a dash of fun!

Why Collect African Art?

Before diving in, let’s chat about why African art deserves a spot in your collection. African art isn’t just visually striking—it’s a reflection of the continent’s diverse cultures, traditions, and histories. From the intricacy of beadwork to the power of masks, African art offers a gateway to understanding and appreciating a world of artistic expression.

WHERE TO BEGIN?

First of all, it's important to familiarize yourself with the regions, as each region has it’s own artistic flair. Let’s give you a quick history lesson.

• West Africa - Known for its vibrant masks and intricate beadwork. Think of the Yoruba and their stunningly detailed mask designs.

• Central Africa - Home to striking wooden sculptures and masks that often play a role in rituals and ceremonies.

• East Africa - Famous for its colorful beadwork and intricate carvings.

• Southern Africa - Offers beautiful stone sculptures and traditional textile art.

STUDY/RESEARCH

Secondly, to familiarize yourself with a certain topic, RESEARCH is always required; so get ready to become an art detective! Start by browsing books, documentaries, and online resources to learn about different styles and regions.

 

FIELD TRIP !!

What’s research without a field trip? After extensive research (well not extensive but adequate research), next step is to jump into the field, experience African art upclose and personal, find what resonates with you. Visit galleries, museums, and exhibitions. Feel the textures, admire the colors, and soak in the stories behind each piece. Consider it a live-action art adventure!

 

BUILDING YOUR ART COLLECTION

When it comes to building your art collection, your personal taste is your guide. You need to begin with what you actually love.

 

AUTHENTICITY

When buying African art, authenticity is crucial. Look for reputable galleries or dealers who can provide provenance and background information on the piece. (Not to brag this is definitely US!) This ensures you’re not only acquiring a genuine artifact but also supporting ethical practices.

BUDGET WISELY

It is a widely known myth that art has to be expensive for it to be considered good. That is definitely untrue. Art collecting doesn’t have to break the bank. Just set a budget that works for you and stick to it. You can find fantastic pieces at various price points. Remember, it’s the story and connection that count!

ART PRESERVATION

A lot of people give tips on how to start collecting art without giving tips on how to preserve that art. We believe these topics go hand in hand. Because if you’re only a beginner collector, you definitely have no clue about art right? No worries, we got you covered.

Care with Love

First tip would be to treat your art like the treasures they are. Dust sculptures and masks regularly and keep them in a climate-controlled environment. For textiles, use acid-free storage and handle with care. It’s all about keeping the magic alive!

Professional Conservation

For valuable or delicate pieces, consider consulting a professional conservator. They can provide expert advice on how to best preserve and protect your collection, ensuring your art stays as enchanting as ever.

 

Collecting African art is more than just acquiring beautiful objects; it’s about connecting with the rich cultural heritage and stories of the continent. We hope with these few tips, you’re ready to start exploring and curating your own unique collection. You could start your journey by visiting our website *wink*

 

Happy Collecting !