Contemporary African art

Scenes and artists.

Contemporary African art is one of the threads of Edith Mbella’s career: present in Madrid in her gallery’s programme, it is today at the centre of the work done at Espace Bolo, in Douala.

A field-based view

Living and working in Douala makes it possible to follow artists closely: studios, first exhibitions, the evolution of a practice. This direct knowledge is precious for collectors who wish to acquire with confidence.

What the practice offers

  • Verifying works: documentation, signature, consistency with the artist’s body of work.
  • Purchase advice: scouting, comparison, negotiation.
  • Support for collections: coherence, inventory, enhancement.
  • Curating: conceiving exhibitions, texts, hanging. See curating.

The scenes followed

The practice follows primarily the Cameroonian and Central African scenes, without ruling out other horizons. Espace Bolo notably presented “Équation rythmique Solution 3”, with major names of Cameroonian plastic arts. Cameroonian artists from several generations have been shown, in painting, sculpture and photography, with each one’s consent.

Caution. Contemporary art follows other criteria than ritual art: it is not a matter of dating or patina, but of intent, traceability and edition. For painting and photography in particular, see painting, photography, plastic arts.

See also: Espace Bolo and design and decorative arts.

Frequently asked questions

Going further

Can the work of a living artist be authenticated?

The opinion relies on the artist, their documentation, studios and galleries. The practice recommends going through the artist or their rights-holder where possible.

Do you advise buyers?

Yes: acquisition advice includes checking the work, the price and the terms of sale. See the dedicated page.

Where can the artists supported be seen?

At Espace Bolo in Douala and at the events announced on the events page. The programme is announced on the events page.

Next step

Buy, sell or document a contemporary work.

Describe your piece in a few lines and attach photographs: the reply is confidential.