ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Six(6) editions in, and we couldn’t be more proud of our achievements till date as a team.
As Africa’s leading art advisory and dealership firm, Patrons Modern & Contemporary African Art (“Patrons MCAA” or “Patrons”) concerns itself greatly with the furtherance of contemporary African art globally through distinguished projects curated wholly by self and in support through partnerships.
One of such projects is small & Iconic. The project’s name explains itself; the works created and curated for this show are small but they are Iconic and timeless. Their intrinsic value is evergreen. The artists collaborated with on each edition have an immense investment value and growth potential.
small & Iconic is one of Patrons projects by which it uses to progress art forms that are uncommon, in an attempt to push African art as a viable, tried and trusted, and high-rewards investible vehicle to achieve more reach. This blueprint provides a pathway for art enthusiasts to get into this enclosed industry, and helps diversify the portfolio of seasoned collectors. These efforts push and deepen the global market size of African art which results in more opportunities in the arts for African artists, collectors, curators, critics, dealers, gallerists, journalists, and so on, on the African continent and in its diaspora.
This acknowledgement would not be complete without our team, our partners, and sponsors.
To our participating artists, thank you for saying yes and being easy to work with to pull off this great show. It took great toiling to get to this point but you would agree that it has been worth it.
We wish to thank Princess Theresa Oghogho Iyase-Odozi (Ph.D. Fsna)Doctor of Philosophy, Visual Arts, and Lehlé Baldé - Founding Editor, BusinessDay Weekender for agreeing to participate and grace us with their audience at the Fireside chat “From brushstrokes to bank statements”
We wish to appreciate our media partners and journalists who made themselves available at our press conference held at the start of March to commemorate the celebration of 2024 International Women’s Day and Women’s History month. Too numerous to mention but thank you for the spotlight; BusinessDay, This Day, Punch Nigeria, Economy Post, Vanguard, Guardian, Wazobia FM, Beats FM, and Arise TV.
We wish to thank our venue partner; The Art Hotel Lagos for collaborating through to this 6th edition of the small & Iconic (SIC) miniature art exhibition. It further strengthens that our collaborative efforts as organisations are well aligned. The ambience and dignity of your hotel complement the calibre of this event and our guests. We thank you for your partnership.
To our wonderful curation team at Patrons; Amaka, Demotek, Ebenezer, Harrison, Meme, Kazeem, Keturah, Peter, Raymond, Samuel, Shedrack, and Victor, thank you for your dedication. Your drive and deep sense of ownership is why every edition is a huge success. It does not go unnoticed.
And finally, to our growing global community of miniature art collectors who acquire and visit our events. Without your patronage, attendance, and kind feedback, we would not be encouraged to do more of these.
We hope that you enjoy this catalogue and the exhibition.
CURATORIAL STATEMENT
Bienvenue à la 6e édition de cette série d’expositions d’art miniature.
Cette édition est centrée sur les femmes d’Afrique francophone.
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So surreal that this is our third year curating this art project and we are already in our 6th edition. Someday I might relay how this project came to be but until then, I still get excited like it is the first time. I really do enjoy and love curating this series. Each edition is different. Each group of artist(s) we are able to bring together hits the spot.
For obvious reasons, March editions are my favourite. As a woman and Patron of African art, I am always seeking avenues to balance the table; to avail opportunities and platforms for female artists to be discussed and collected and ultimately, for them to thrive in their careers and become masters of their medium.
When we started the process for this edition, as March editions dictates, we knew it would be an all female group. For a long time, the where from was the unanswered question. In choosing the artists, a lot of submissions were received, recommendations made, and it just happened to be that the cohesiveness I sought after resonated with female artists from Francophone Africa. I couldn’t stop coming back to these chosen women. Their unique style I could see how well they will compete yet, blend in when curated in a show. And so it came to be.
With every edition I strive to push myself and deliver a show that makes the previous edition seem like a child’s play. In turn, I push the artist to deliver a stellar body of works. The way I see, this is the only way it makes it worthwhile for all stakeholders involved.
Highlighting female artists from French speaking Africa regions not only expands our collective taste as a community to include arts from these countries, it further cements the obvious that art is a universal language that breaks the border and barrier of spoken language, nationality, tribe, gender, culture. Our experiences— owned, shared, or heard—are no different from someone across the border to the east or west.
Why HERstory Reframed?
HERstory Reframed. How fitting a theme for this edition.
This March 2024 edition features:
Aza Mansongi - Democratic Republic of Congo
Kristine Tsala - Cameroun
Falhone Ogoun - Benin Republic
The theme draws inspiration from the “Inspire Inclusion” theme of the 2024 International Women’s Day celebration. HERstory Reframed transcends mere art appreciation and ignites a conversation about inclusion, representation, and the transformative power of art.
Furthermore, with March being a remarkable month-long celebration of women, this exhibition celebrates the resilience, creativity, and empowerment of women. The art curated for this edition delves into the diverse stories of women from all walks of life. These women whisper stories born out of their own, shared, and heard experiences. Through the eyes of these incredibly talented artists, I hope I am able to unveil narratives that inspire inclusion, challenge stereotypes, and celebrate the beauty of diversity and what that really means.
I’m really excited to show the world the amazing art these women have created and that I have curated.
As you indulge in the body of works curated and captured in the pages of this catalogue, my hope is that one or three pieces evoke emotions in you like never before.
AZA MANSONGI
Aza Mansongi’s artistic journey began in Kinshasa, where her natural inclination towards creativity blossomed from a young age. Encouraged by her parents, who recognized her talent early on, Aza found solace and joy in expressing herself through drawings and art. Despite initial challenges at school, her parents’ unwavering support led her towards a path of artistic exploration.
Inspired by her father’s encouragement and fuelled by her passion for comics, Aza embarked on artistic studies, excelling in her secondary level artistic studies and later obtaining a degree from the Academy of Fine Arts in Kinshasa.
A pivotal moment in Aza’s career came when she joined the Ateliers Botembe, a vibrant artistic community where she found camaraderie and inspiration. Collaborating with two Cameroonian artists, she embarked on a journey of creative exploration, culminating in numerous exhibitions in Kinshasa and Douala. Though the collective eventually disbanded in 2014, Aza emerged stronger and more determined to pursue her artistic vision independently.
THE FAMILY UNIT
This body of work puts in limelight the shared bond and undying love a mother has for her child(ren). It is unconditional and powerful regardless of their social condition.
By default and without question, mothers are willing to sacrifice many things for the well-being, safety, and happiness of their children.
This is the narrative captured in these canvas works. The stories are powerful, showing how in a family unit, women juggle between being a mother and being a wife.
Balancing Family
Acrylic on cotton canvas
23.6 x 23.6 in | 60 x 60 cm
2022
₦6,000,000.00 / $4,000.00
Pepites
Acrylic on cotton canvas, collage
23.6 x 23.6 in | 60 x 60 cm
2023
₦4,125,000.00 / $2,750.00
Maternity
Acrylic painting on cardboard paper
9.1 x 6.3 in | 23 x 16 cm
2022
₦1,575,000.00 / $1,050.00
PERSEVERANCE
In each brushstroke, the artist attempts to portray the remarkable strength wielded by female artists.
With this piece, the artist attempts to tell the story of women artists and the difficulties faced in the professional environment; the constant need to prove oneself and to outperform their male counterparts, all in the hopes of getting a fair chance and opportunity to climb in the industry. To attain incredible success.
From the artist’s perspective, the most important quality female artists need is perseverance, especially in the face of difficulties.
Whilst Visionary and Confrontation 1 focuses on the remarkable quality of perseverance African women hold, Confrontation 2 represents the constant struggle female artists are confronted with.
Visionary
Acrylic & oil painting on cotton canvas, collage
11.8 x 11.8 in | 30 x 30 cm
2023
₦2,550,000.00 / $1,700.00
Confrontation
Acrylic on cotton canvas, collage
23.6 x 23.6 in | 60 x 60 cm 2023
₦4,125,000.00 / $2,750.00
Confrontation 2
Acrylic on cotton canvas
23.6 x 23.6 in | 60 x 60 cm
2023
₦4,125,000.00 / $2,750.00
ECONOMIC EFFECTS
In this 2-part conversation, the artist captures the economic situation and the constraints it brings. Many women in Africa default to savings as individuals but mostly in groups. In different lands, tribes, languages, and tongues, this group savings concept is titled differently. Such group savings often happen amongst friends, neighbours, or business peers. This activity is embarked on by many as an attempt to meet certain family needs, or goals. From time to time, these women would meet together not only to talk about their savings, but as a safe space that serves as group therapy for everyone, helping each person to find a solution to their problems.
This is the message the artist endeavours to pass along to her audience in these paintings.
Escape
Acrylic on cotton canvas, collage
23.6 x 23.6 in | 60 x 60 cm
2023
₦4,125,000.00 / $2,750.00
Daily Tontine
Acrylic on cotton canvas, collage
23.6 x 23.6 in | 60 x 60 cm 2023
₦4,125,000.00 / $2,750.00
AFRICA TODAY
Living in Africa is increasingly becoming more expensive. It is no longer as affordable as it once was. As each day goes by, the rising cost of living is becoming a burden on households and many family heads are at their wits end.
The household basket is not as buoyant as it was, it is experiencing some tough times. The onus rests most of the time on the shoulders of the woman of the house.
In spite of this reality, women have always managed to find a way to provide daily bread and sufficient diet for their families.
In this painting, the artist passes this powerful message through her creative artistic expression.
Woman’s gear
Acrylic on cotton canvas, collage
23.6 x 23.6 in | 60 x 60 cm
2023
₦4,125,000.00 / $2,750.00
2023
Article 15
Acrylic on cotton canvas
23.6 x 23.6 in | 60 x 60 cm
₦4,125,000.00 / $2,750.00
Work in the shadows
Oil painting on canvas
14.2 x 17.7 in | 36 x 45 cm 2024
₦4,050,000.00 / $2,700.00
In this piece, the artist poses a play on realism.
At first glance, this painting depicts the portrait of a man. In reality, it is the symbol of two faces forming as one; behind every successful man there is an equally successful woman. This is to say that women play bigger roles in a partnership or marriage in today’s society. This is because not only is she a homemaker, she has also become an ambitious career woman or even a business owner, whatever her trade is.
This concept has time and again been validated by several public figures who at the height of their career and all the glory that comes with it, testify to the positive contribution of their wives in their successes.
Emancipation
Acrylic on cotton canvas
23.6 x 23.6 in | 60 x 60 cm
2022
₦4,125,000.00 / $2,750.00
This artwork draws inspiration from today’s society.
Today, women are more aware and vocal about how they value themselves, how they want to be valued…they know their rights. Yet, many women are still unaware and do not enjoy this freedom.
Women have formed many movements proclaiming and spearheading emancipation of women, almost like an S.O.S, a warning cry.
This painting is a tribute to the women of the east of the artist’s country, the Democratic Republic of Congo, who lived in war years ago and suffered day-long abuse. Despite this, they have incredible strength, to keep their heads high and continue to fight by sharing their experience. Above all, women remain hopeful for a better year tomorrow for their families.
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KRISTINE TSALA
Born in Yaoundé in 1979, Kristine Tsala Lives and works between Cameroon and Ivory Coast.
Kristine Tsala graduated from the Mbalmayo Institute of Artistic Training in Cameroon and continued at the Academy of Fine Arts in Kinshasa, DR Congo. Research and curiosity will always enrich her experiences and artistic journey.
Kristine’s work revolves around memory, questioning narratives rooted in objects, places, and humans from a phantasmagorical perspective. Her paintings offer an enigmatic entity with a long neck that carries within it the two extremes of life in black and white checkered patterns and colours. A language where the notion of duality takes root in the past and the present.
In her drawings, the powerful vitality of a revealing writing about places laden with traces and silent stories teems. Her installations-for when she delves into this medium-stage objects as narrators of a daily life inhabited by the personality of an individual depending on the exhibition location.
The artist thus becomes an archaeologist, capturing experiences, fossils, energies deposited in these spaces.
FANTASMAGORIE
This series delves into human subjectivity through a journey from comfort to the unknown in Abidjan. It explores intimate human experiences like doubt, fear, and resilience.
The artist navigates the complexities of memory and emotion, revealing a universal narrative of pain and hope. It’s a poignant exploration of human interconnectedness, inviting viewers to reflect on their own experiences and find empathy amidst the obvious chaos.
FANTASMAGORIE 1
Acrylic + relief on canvas
15.77 x 15.77 in | 40 x 40 cm
2024
₦4,875,000.00 / $3,250.00
Acrylic + relief on canvas
15.77 x 15.77 in | 40 x 40 cm
2024
₦4,575,000.00 / $3,050.00
FANTASMAGORIE 2
Acrylic + relief on canvas
15.77 x 15.77 in | 40 x 40 cm
2024
₦4,575,000.00 / $3,050.00
FANTASMAGORIE 3
IMMERSION
This series is a dive into the heart of human emotions and experiences in a fantastic way.
The dematerialised and materialised Human Being testifies to the stability of a troubled society.
The message here the artist tries to pass across is for each one to Immerse yourself to connect with yourself.
IMMERSION 1
Acrylic + relief on canvas
15.77 x 15.77 in | 40 x 40 cm 2024
₦4,575,000.00 / $3,050.00
IMMERSION 2
Acrylic + relief on canvas
15.77 x 15.77 in | 40 x 40 cm 2024
₦4,575,000.00 / $3,050.00
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The Business of Art:
Female Entrepreneurs Shaping the Industry in Africa
What comes to mind when you hear “The Business of Art”? Sales of artworks? Gallery set up? Or perhaps investing in fast-rising African artists?
Well…
Art has always been a powerful reflection of society, and in Africa, its significance transcends aesthetic value. It is a window into our culture, history, and identity. In the thick of things, female entrepreneurs are leading the charge, adding new dimensions to the African art industry. Their stories are not just about business, but also about empowerment, innovation, and cultural preservation.
These female entrepreneurs play multifaceted roles. They are artists, curators, gallerists, collectors, and investors, each in their respective disciplines, contributing their unique perspectives and expertise. Despite the known challenges that they face—gender biases, access to resources, and market visibility—women are redefining the industry’s landscape. And we are cheering them on from the front.
Across the continent, which female entrepreneurs are making significant contributions to the African art scene, and what are their areas of focus?
This digest spotlights 7 notable female entrepreneurs in the African art world; how they are contributing their quota, and the future of female entrepreneurship in the African art industry.
How are Female Entrepreneurs Changing the African Art Industry?
Female entrepreneurs are reshaping the African art industry in profound ways. They bring fresh narratives, challenging stereotypes and amplifying diverse voices. Through initiatives like mentorship programs and art fairs dedicated to female artists, they are fostering inclusivity and empowering the next generation. These women are leveraging technology to reach wider audiences, establishing innovative platforms for artists to showcase their work and spearheading collaborations that transcend borders.
7 Female Entrepreneurs in the African Art Industry to Look Out For
1. Tokini Peterside (Nigeria)
Founder of Art X Collective, Peterside’s vision has placed Lagos on the global art map by showcasing contemporary African artists and galleries.
2. Mary Sibande (South Africa)
Renowned for challenging societal norms through her sculptures and installations, Sibande sparks conversations about race, gender, and identity.
3. Nana Oforiatta Ayim (Ghana)
As a cultural historian, curator and founder of the ANO Institute of Arts and Knowledge, Nana is dedicated to preserving Africa’s cultural heritage.
4. Keturah Ovio (Nigeria)
Keturah Ovio is a multi-hyphenate and visionary entrepreneur and philanthropist. As Chief Curator at Patrons Modern and Contemporary African Art, Keturah actively promotes inclusivity and cultural heritage through initiatives like this “HERstory Reframed” that is one of the small & Iconic exhibition series.
5. Selly Raby Kane (Senegal)
Selly’s avant-garde fashion designs blend Senegalese folklore with futurism, captivating global audiences and blurring art and fashion boundaries.
6. Marie-Cécile Zinsou (Benin)
Marie’s Zinsou Art Museum in Benin serves as a hub for contemporary African art, offering exhibitions, workshops, and educational programs.
7. Ugoma Adegoke (Nigeria)
As a gallerist and cultural curator, Ugoma is dedicated to community-building and promoting African arts and culture through representations and specialised programs.
What is the Future of Women in the Business of Art, as it pertains to the African Art Industry?
The future of female entrepreneurship in the African art industry looks promising yet challenging. As more women break barriers and claim their space, they will drive innovation, diversity, and sustainability. However, systemic barriers such as access to funding and institutional support remain significant hurdles to overcome as these are not industry-specific challenges. With initiatives like mentorship programs, crowdfunding platforms, and collaborative networks, the path to success becomes more navigable.
The African art scene is no longer a spectator sport. Female entrepreneurs are actively shaping its future, ensuring that the world recognizes the immense creativity and talent brimming from the continent. There is a seismic shift, and women are taking the lead from the front row. They are not just selling art; they are building a sustainable ecosystem that empowers artists, educates audiences, provides massive returns for collectors, and redefines the global perception of African art. As this movement continues to gain momentum, one thing is certain: the world will be watching, captivated by the artistry and entrepreneurial spirit of Africa’s women, and swayed by their outcomes.
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FALHONE OGOUN
Falhone Ogoun is a captivating visual artist, leaving her mark on the art scene with her bold and thought- provoking creations. Based in Benin, her artistic journey has taken her across borders, with exhibitions in Congo, Burkina Faso, and beyond.
Falhone’s artistic expression transcends singular mediums. She skilfully navigates diverse forms; from installations and sculptures, to paintings and mixed media pieces. Her work is characterised by powerful use of colour, texture, and symbolism, often drawing inspiration from her cultural heritage and contemporary social issues.
Falhone’s art delves into themes of identity, belonging, and the complexities of human experiences. She uses her platform to challenge perspectives and spark meaningful conversations. With each exhibition and creation, Falhone establishes herself as a rising star in the world of visual arts. Her unique voice and artistic vision is her personal promise to always captivate audiences and push boundaries in the years to come.
27.56 x 27.56 in | 70 x 70 cm
2023
₦4,275,000.00 / $2,850.00
In this painting, the artist portrays the life of a single mother who educates her children alone and the conditions such women have to scale through. She is burdened with having to carry the weight of society and traditions of men alone, sometimes, even having to survive physical and emotional abuse. This can easily break her, but she draws strength from her children, knowing that she is all they have and she has to keep on fighting for them, to give them a fair chance to be responsible and successful citizens of society when they grow older.
Mummy
Acrylic and pastel oïl on canvas
Grain de folie
Acrylic
and pastel oil on canvas
27.56 x 27.56 in | 70 x 70 cm
2023
₦3,975,000.00 / $2,650.00
Faced with life’s evolving challenges, the trials and tribulations of society and the masks (poker face) that women sometimes have to put on, one begins to forget all about society’s stereotypes and the way people often look at you.
With this painting, the artist sends a strong message to all women; to let go of societal pressures and stereotypes of what they should be, and what they ought to have achieved at a certain age. The artist urges every woman to reach deep inside of herself, to find the magnificent person that she is and let it express itself.
To have lived each moment to the fullest.
Kèkènon
Acrylic and pastel oïl on canvas
27.56 x 39.4 in | 70 x 100 cm 2023
₦5,250,000.00 / $3,500.00
This piece is part of the Kèkènon series. A series intended to highlight motorcycle taxis called kèkènon or zémidjan in the Fon language of Benin. This series shows how embedded this humble profession is in everyday lives of people and how it is normal to see women ride kèkènons.
This piece also attempts to bring to fore the beauty of the Beninois woman, dressed in loincloth.
Acrylic and pastel oïl on canvas
27.56 x 27.56 in | 70 x 70 cm 2023
₦3,975,000.00 / $2,650.00
The subject is named Kèmi.
This work speaks to the essence of the African woman in her full glory and what makes her unique; her big torch-like eyes, her full lips, her colourful fashion session, and the beauty of her traditional braids.
Kèmi
LES YEUX SONT LA FENÊTRE DE L’ÂME
Iris pools, swirling with galaxies of emotion. Laughter dances trapped in their sparkling depths, while sorrow lingers in their twilight hush.
A silent language, more evocative than brushstrokes on canvas, speaks from behind the veil.
Les yeux sont la fenêtre de l’âme translated to English means; The eyes are the window to the soul.
The artist’s subjects are young girls. With these portraits, the artist gleans into her subjects, and tells of how one’s eye(s) can tell or mask one’s true emotions.
Les yeux sont la fenêtre de l’âme - 1
Acrylic and pastel oïl on canvas
11.8 x 11.8 in | 30 x 30 cm 2023
₦2,775,000.00 / $1,850.00
Les yeux sont la fenêtre de l’âme - 2
Acrylic and pastel oïl on canvas
11.8 x 11.8 in | 30 x 30 cm 2023
₦2,775,000.00 / $1,850.00
Les yeux sont la fenêtre de l’âme - 3
Acrylic and pastel oïl on canvas
11.8 x 11.8 in | 30 x 30 cm 2023
₦2,775,000.00 / $1,850.00
Featuring Aza Mansongi
Kristine Tsala Falhone Ogoun
