Ars longa, vita brevis (Art is long, but life is short)

Keith Haring said, “Art should liberate your soul, provoke the imagination and encourage people to go further.” An example of such an art piece is the famous “The Mona Lisa” by Leonardo da Vinci, a painting that captures the essence of the human soul, the beauty of the natural world, and the mystery of life itself.

Now, let's talk about art. Art is a universal language that predates human civilisation. It is a communication that allows people to express themselves using many means, such as Painting, Sculpture, Literature, Architecture, Theater, Film, and Music. African art, in particular, has a long history that reflects the continent's numerous cultural and aesthetic traditions.

According to archaeological data, the earliest humans, who inhabited the world around 100,000 years ago, when art first emerged, produced art through rock carvings, cave paintings, and other artistic mediums. These artistic creations were made mainly for ceremonial or religious functions and used as a conduit for mediation with the divine.

Art evolved alongside human civilisation over time. Individuals began to create items for aesthetic reasons rather than religious or ceremonial grounds, and art began to take on a more decorative role. Various art styles and techniques emerged as people experimented with numerous materials and means of expression.

As one of the oldest and most varied art forms in the world, African art reflects the region's rich cultural heritage and aesthetic traditions. Its vivid colours, strong patterns, and elaborate designs define African art. It includes various techniques, including sculpture, painting, textiles, and pottery. African art dates back to the Paleolithic period, when early people began to produce cave paintings and rock carvings. These works of art portrayed animals, humans, and other natural components and were used to communicate with the divine and respect ancestral spirits.

Art evolved alongside African civilization, artists from many regions of the continent created their own distinct styles and techniques, drawing influence from their surroundings and cultural traditions. West African art, for example, is distinguished by wood carvings and elaborate designs, whilst the use of beads and textiles indicates East African art. African art has long been used to express ideas, tell stories, and commemorate ancestors throughout African culture and society. In addition, artists created pieces depicting many gods and goddesses, as well as significant events in African history, which were frequently employed in religious rites and rituals.

Artists produced works that made political and social commentary on topics like slavery, colonialism, and apartheid. Art was also used as a medium to address social and political issues. For instance, South African artist William Kentridge produced several illustrations and animations that made observations about the impact of apartheid on South African society. A new generation of African artists is utilising their work to comment on current social and political challenges as modern African art continues to develop and flourish. Painting, sculpture, performance art, and video are just a few of the many media that make up contemporary African art. Contemporary African artists frequently use their work to refute preconceived notions and misconceptions about the continent and its people. For instance, Njideka Akunyili Crosby, a Nigerian artist, makes sophisticated mixed-media paintings that address the intricacies of her identity as a Nigerian immigrant living in the United States.

African art has been integral to African culture and society for a very long time, from the earliest cave drawings to the present art scene. It has been used to convey ideas, tell stories, and pay homage to ancestors today, so whenever you see a piece of art, pause, take a break and appreciate it because Life is art, and Art is life. Never separate it.