Art opens us up to the world. We can get a glimpse into the culture and history of a people through their creations. When it comes to African art, many artists are visual griots who tell a story through their visual work. The digital age has made it easier for artists to present their works on a larger platform. Thelma Golden, Director and Chief Curator of the Studio Museum in Harlem, explained to us at She Hive NYC 2016 that art at its core is multidisciplinary.
Here are some of the points that Thelma Golden highlighted.
– “Digital spaces for art display can have pros and cons. Many museums plan so far ahead that it could take years for your art to be showcased, digital spaces in this instance can be great for artists to bring attention to their work.”
– “Create a support system within your peer group, within different fields, they can be cultural mentors to you.”
– “Art being in the digital space has been to the great benefit for artists who don’t always have access to the official portals of art.”
– “When thinking about investing in art you need to do your research. First figure out what you like, go to museums and see what is for you. For example, do you like abstract art? Do you like art with a lot of texture? To live with art, you want to be around something that inspires you and provokes you.”
– “One of the amazing things about collecting contemporary art is that you get to know the artist. Knowing about the artist should also be criteria when investing in art pieces.”
– “You should only buy art from reputable sources to ensure that you are getting what you paid for.”
– “Follow artists that you like on social media and see their path, engage with them.”
She Hive NYC attendees learned that art is an investment in culture itself. If you want to be an agent for change in the distribution of African art, be involved in the art scene.
Sign up for a museum membership within your community. Visit art exhibits whenever possible. There is strength in numbers, have your peers get involved. Let’s go out and support!