A new generation of creatives of African descent is reshaping Switzerland’s cultural landscape—challenging conventions through bold aesthetics, critical inquiry, and fresh perspectives rooted in diasporic experience.
In this dynamic episode of Africa Basel Conversations, moderator Keabetswe Boccomino of Afrinova brings together voices from across the African diaspora in Switzerland and Europe. Working across design, sound, research, and visual culture, the panellists explore how diasporic artists reclaim space, resist dominant narratives, and establish new paradigms of artistic excellence.
From reimagining heritage to confronting socio-political structures, this conversation delves into the power of creativity as cultural resistance and affirmation. These practitioners are not only shaping their immediate communities—they are emerging as influential contributors to the global art discourse.
Guests:
Tracy September – Artist and cultural practitioner
Joshua Amissah – Multidisciplinary designer and researcher
Sinzo Aanza – Writer, artist, and political commentator
Moderated by:
Keabetswe Boccomino – Curator, cultural producer, and founder of Afrinova
As Africa’s cultural renaissance gains strength, the question of legacy becomes ever more pressing. How can families, private collectors, and institutions ensure that African art collections are not only preserved, but remain a source of inspiration, learning, and empowerment for generations to come?
In this thought-provoking episode of Africa Basel Conversations, our distinguished panel explores the role of intergenerational responsibility in safeguarding African cultural heritage. From the continent to the diaspora, experts and insiders share visionary strategies for sustainable collection management—offering insights into models of stewardship, community engagement, and the evolving role of collectors as cultural custodians.
Guests:
Paul Kalu – Art collector and economist
Carey Godwin – Interior designer, print collector, and multidisciplinary artist working in ceramics and weaving
Oliver Enwonwu – Petrochemical engineer, art historian, painter, founder of Omenka Gallery, and President of the Society of Nigerian Artists
Moderated by:
Sandra Mbanefo-Obiago – Curator, founder and director of SMO Contemporary Art, and advisor on corporate art collections
