A World in Common: Contemporary African Photography

The book explores how artists have used photography and video art to reimagine history and expand our understanding of contemporary realities, challenging Western images of Africa and otherness. It brings together a diverse range of artists and thinkers to present perspectives on issues such as spirituality, urbanism, and climate change, revealing how images travel across time and geography.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 06 July 2023
Publisher: Tate Publishing

Since the dawn of photography in the 19th century, Africa has been largely shaped by Western perceptions of its cultures and traditions. From the colonial carte de visite and ethnographic archives to the emergence of studio portraiture and social documents of racial surveillance, the intricate relationship between Africa and the photographic lens has become inextricably intertwined with the discourses of post-colonialism.

In an effort to challenge these historical images of exoticism and otherness, this book showcases how artists have employed photography and video art to reimagine history and broaden our understanding of contemporary realities. By bringing together a diverse array of artists and thinkers, this book explores the myriad ways in which images traverse time and geography, and how artists are reshaping our perceptions of the world we inhabit.

Within its pages, readers will encounter a rich tapestry of perspectives on topics such as spirituality, urbanism, and climate change. These diverse viewpoints are presented by a collective of artists who employ their unique mediums to convey their messages and provoke thought. Through their works, they challenge us to reconsider our assumptions and expand our horizons, revealing the many interconnected layers of our global existence.

This book serves as a testament to the power of visual storytelling and the ability of artists to shape our collective consciousness. It encourages us to look beyond the surface and explore the deeper meanings and complexities of the world around us, fostering a greater appreciation for the diversity and richness of our shared human experience.

Dimension: 251 x 192 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781849768511