Why African Art is Hot Right Now

Chéri Samba (Democratic Republic of Congo)

Chéri Samba is one of the most famous contemporary African artists. His works have been included in the collections of the Centre Georges Pompidou (Paris) and the Museum of Modern Art (NY). In 2007 he was invited to participate in the Venice Biennale.

Chéri Samba's paintings expose everyday life in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s capital, Kinshasa, depicting social and political issues, including AIDS, social inequity, and corruption. Chéri Samba lives in Kinshasa and Paris.

El Anatsui (Ghana)

El Anatsui is an internationally acclaimed artist who transforms simple materials, often discarded materials into complex assemblages and sculptures. In recent years he has drawn particular international attention for his iconic "bottle-top" installations.

Anatsui's works have been included in the collections of the Metropolitan Museum of Modern Art (NY), the British Museum (London), Centre Georges Pompidou (Paris), Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (Washington) and Setagaya Museum (Tokyo) to name but a few. He has been invited to participate in both the Venice Biennale and the Paris Triennial. He currently lives and works between Ghana and Nigeria. (view more...jack shainman gallery)

Read the article Why 'outstanding' and 'affordable' African art is so hot right now on cnn.com