Loman Art in Dakar will host a new group exhibition titled Soppiku: Metamorphosis – The Evolution of Artistic Identity., featuring the works of five emerging Senegalese artists who have received grants from the Africa Prime Initiative (API) – the philanthropic arm of the US-based video streaming platform, Africa Prime.

The five featured artists – Amy Celestina Ndione, Fatou Mandoye Mbengue, Laye Thioune, Mouhamad Jawad, and Xaadim Bamba Mbow – each received US$2,000 from the Africa Prime Initiative to create new artworks, advance their artistic careers, develop their skills, and gain exposure through this exhibition at Loman Art.

The exhibition will kick off with an Open Studio event on September 28th 2024, offering a glimpse into the artists’ creative processes. Highlights will include opportunities to meet and discuss with the artists about their inspirations and creative journeys, observe live demonstrations of their techniques, and explore their working spaces.

The official exhibition opening will take place on October 12th 2024, will feature a range of activities to celebrate and contextualize the exhibition.

Soppiku: Metamorphosis – The Evolution of Artistic Identity. is a celebration of artistic growth and transformation. Through the work of five Senegalese artists, the exhibition highlights the dynamic nature of creativity and the significance of nurturing local talent. Supported by the Africa Prime Initiative, Metamorphosis not only provides a platform for innovative artistic expression but also reaffirms the value of empowering artists to tell their own stories. In capturing the transformative power of art, the exhibition invites viewers to engage with and appreciate the evolving landscape of contemporary African art. By nurturing local talent and providing the resources needed for artistic exploration, API empowers artists to shape their own narratives and assert their creative voices on a global stage. This exhibition offers a platform for Senegalese artists to showcase their growth, share their stories, and engage with audiences in meaningful ways, reaffirming the transformative power of art and the importance of supporting creative development.

Yaya Moussa, founder of Africa Prime, commented on the importance of investing in African talent: Our aim is to invest in the future of African art by supporting emerging talent. Through these grants, we are helping artists develop their voices and contribute to shaping Africa’s narrative on a global scale.

lomanart.com