The Artist Who Made a Difference

From his first exhibition in 1995 to over 30 solo shows across Europe and North America, Ethiopian painter Fikru Gebremariam has carved out a singular path. His latest collection — exhibited at the Alliance Ethio-Française in Addis Ababa — marks a bold new chapter: an embrace of abstract expressionism rooted in African soil. In this portrait, Fikru reflects on his artistic evolution, his rejection of labels, and the subconscious forces that shape his work. Art historians, curators and fellow artists explore how his life, heritage, and travels converge on canvas. Journalist: Tefera Ghedamu

Publications

Culture 24 September 2024

Africa amid a cultural renaissance: challenges and opportunities in the creative industries

Africa is reinventing its cultural future by meeting the challenges of the creative industries. The second edition of the Festival International des Arts du Bénin (FInAB), which took place from 23 to 28 April 2024 in Cotonou, Porto-Novo and Ouidah, brought together artists and professionals to discuss the challenges facing Africa's cultural industries. What is the future of African art on the international scene?

Culture 11 September 2024

Poupéemania, the art of representation – Burkina Faso

In Ouagadougou, the Poupéemania project highlights African identity through handcrafted dolls designed to reflect the culture and nurture children's pride. The artist behind this movement offers a variety of colourful and unique items, celebrating the representation of Africans in the world. In this report, Sonia Kocty introduces us to this creative and inspiring world, where each work carries a powerful message of belonging and dignity.

Culture 30 August 2024

Mati Diop, a Franco-Senegalese filmmaker

She is redefining African cinema with her daring filmography. Born into a family of artists, she has established herself as a major figure in auteur cinema, winning awards at Cannes and Berlin. Discover her unique career path, her thoughts on identity and art, and her views on the impact of her film ‘Dahomey’, the rise of African cinema, and the challenges facing women filmmakers.

Culture 19 July 2024

Menoosha Muziki – Vocal coach

She is a talented vocal coach and singer. Originally from Côte d'Ivoire, with roots in Cameroon, Menoosha has lived and worked between Germany and France. She advocates for the concept of overcoming trauma through music.

Culture 17 July 2024

Harmony and passion: the journey of a violin-maker in Cameroon

Luthiery, the age-old art of making stringed instruments, is getting a new lease of life in Cameroon thanks to Clovis Tchoufack. Based in Douala, this visionary craftsman combines tradition and innovation to create unique guitars that are making their mark on the country's musical scene. From a passion born of heartbreak, Clovis has built a flourishing career, becoming a benchmark to be reckoned with. Journalist: Maxime Farrel Bounya

Culture 5 July 2024

David Ochieng, a Kenyan renowned designer

Meet David Ochieng, known as Avido, a designer and former dancer whose passion for fashion has propelled him to remarkable heights. As the creative genius behind the Kibera Fashion Show, his innovative designs have dressed international stars like Beyoncé and Bruno Mars. Beyond the runway, he founded the Avido Foundation, dedicated to uplifting the community in Kibera, Kenya's largest slum.

Culture 3 July 2024

Premiere of the Burkina Faso show “Welcome to Kikidéni”

The TV show "Bienvenue à Kikidéni" (Welcome to Kikidéni) is back with a third part featuring an unlikely but emblematic trio: a village chief, an imam, and a priest, who embody the diversity and challenges of Burkina Faso society.

Culture 21 June 2024

Mata Gabin, multidisciplinary artist from Côte d’Ivoire

Actress, poet, singer and artist, Mata Gabin is passionate about art and refuses to be confined to a single discipline. Her eclectic career path and love of creativity have led her to explore various artistic fields with exceptional intensity. In this interview, she tells us about her current projects, her inspirations, and her commitment to the emancipation of women and the promotion of the African diaspora.

Culture 7 June 2024

Nukreche Pouna, fashion designer and creator

Originally from Congo-Brazzaville, Nukreche Pouna has conquered the world of fashion with her bold creations and refined sense. As a stylist and creator of the brand KRESHESSE, she has made a name for herself on the international stage and stands out for her exceptional use of raffia.