African Women In Art Award (AWAA) Reveals Finalists For Its 2024 Edition {Full List}

African Women In Art Award

OpenLife Nigeria reports that the African Women in Art Award (AWAA) has officially revealed the finalists for its 2024 edition.

This prestigious competition, open to women artists from Sub-Saharan Africa, celebrates creative excellence under this year’s theme, “Mother Africa.” The theme encouraged artists to explore African identity, heritage, and the continent’s nurturing spirit through their creative works.

The finalists, representing countries such as Nigeria, Zambia, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Sierra Leone, and Ethiopia, were selected by an international jury for their exceptional creativity and innovation.

Their works blend traditional influences with contemporary forms of self-expression, showcasing the richness of Africa’s cultural heritage.

The winners will be announced on 15 January 2025, and their works will be featured in global exhibitions throughout 2025, with stops in Zambia, France, and Russia.

Commenting on the initiative, Yanina Dubeykovskaya, founder of the AWAA Award and the Her Voice Foundation, said:

“There remains a significant gap in opportunities between boys and girls in Africa, especially in access to education and creative professions. I am confident that the AWAA Award and all our foundation’s projects will help close this gap. We aim to uncover truly bright talents who will serve as role models for hundreds of girls.”

Celebrating Talent in Two Categories

The competition honors artists across two categories: Emerging Artists and Established Masters.
Emerging Artists:

This category recognizes rising talents whose works stand out for their innovation and fresh perspectives.
– Drawing: Esther Omoshalewa Odunsi (Nigeria), Rebecca Ayansola (Nigeria), Veronica Hantumbu (Zambia), Ainji Epifania (Namibia)

– Mixed Media: Claire Chelemu (Zambia), Alice Muimui (Zambia), Maria Mbereshu (Namibia)
– Painting: Mwaba Marie Chandia (Zambia), Dim Martha Chiazoka (Nigeria), Hawa-Jane Bangura (Sierra Leone)
– Sculpture: Ainji Epifania (Namibia), Nyasha Chigama (Zimbabwe)
– Digital Art: Natasha Mwila (Zambia), Vetutekule Shikongo (Namibia), Aislinn Finnegan (Zambia)
Established Masters:
This category celebrates seasoned professionals who have significantly impacted the art world through exhibitions and mentorship.

– Painting: Millicent Osumuo-Onuegbu (Nigeria), Eden Mulu Abay (Ethiopia), Selamawit G. Tsadik (Ethiopia), Nukwase Tembo (Zambia), Hermela Abayneh (Ethiopia), Mulenga J. Mulenga (Zambia)
– Mixed Media: Mulenga J. Mulenga (Zambia), Onyinye Ezennia (Nigeria), Natasha Evans (Zambia)
– Sculpture: Mulenga J. Mulenga (Zambia), Djakou Kassi Nathalie (Namibia)

Upcoming Exhibitions

The winning works will be showcased at a series of international exhibitions, providing artists with a global platform to connect with collectors, critics, and art lovers:
– March 2025: Zambia
– May 2025: France
– October 2025: Russia