The exhibition “A World in Common” at Tate Modern in London offers a captivating view of contemporary African photography. Featuring the work of 36 artists from across the continent, this exhibition explores Africa’s ancestral heritage and traditions through powerful works.
One of the first photographic series that attracted attention was that of George Osodi, entitled “Nigerian Monarchs”. These portraits of Nigerian kings and queens captivate the viewer, with expressions ranging from interest to regal impassiveness. They offer a poignant insight into how African identity continues to be shaped by ancestral legacies and traditions.
The exhibition’s curator, Osei Bonsu, of British-Ghanaian origin, highlights the power of photography to reveal new perspectives on Africa’s past and challenge the stereotypes often associated with the continent. “A World in Common” explores the connections between contemporary photography and historical forms of visual representation. It examines the forces of mobility and circulation that shaped empires and territories, while viewing the archive as a vast space of possibilities where alternative forms of storytelling come to life.
The artists featured in the exhibition cover a multitude of themes and subjects, reflecting the diversity and richness of Africa. Among them is James Barnor, a Ghanaian photographer whose work from the 1950s and 1960s documents the transition of Ghanaian society towards independence. His photographs immortalize the hopes and dreams of a nation in full transformation. Similarly, Lazhar Mansouri, an Algerian photographer, documented the changes that accompanied the Algerian War of Independence. These studio photographers helped change the way Africans were represented on camera, inspiring a new generation of photographers.
Beyond the history of the past, many of the artists on display at Tate Modern look to Africa’s future by addressing the challenges facing the continent, such as climate change and rapid urbanization. They find inspiration in the myths and shared dreams of a new society. Their photographs combine surrealism with elements of photojournalism to offer another perspective on Africa and its contemporary reality.
The exhibition “A World in Common” is a unique opportunity to explore the different facets of contemporary African photography. It invites us to question our prejudices and discover a fresh and nuanced vision of Africa and its current reality. Through art, these artists act as spokespersons for an Africa that celebrates its cultural identity while challenging the classic narratives conveyed by the media. It is an invitation to discover the richness and diversity of a constantly evolving continent.