African art has had a significant influence on modern art, particularly in the 20th century. The use of
bold colors and geometric shapes, along with the inclusion of natural elements, have been influential
in the works of modern artists. African art has also been an inspiration for abstract expressionism
and surrealism, two major movements in modern art. The integration of spirituality and religion in
African art has also influenced modern artists, particularly those who were interested in exploring
the psychological and emotional aspects of art.
One of the most notable examples of the influence of African art on modern art is the work of Pablo
Picasso. Picasso was deeply influenced by African art, and he integrated many African elements in
his works. For example, Picasso's famous painting Les Demoiselles d'Avignon from 1907, which is
considered one of the most important paintings in modern art, features African masks and the use of
bold and earthy colors.
The surrealist movement, which flourished in the 1920s and 1930s, was also greatly influenced by
African art. Surrealist artists such as Salvador Dali and Max Ernst incorporated African elements such
as masks and statues into their works.
Another prominent example is the work of Jean-Michel Basquiat. Basquiat was a neo-expressionist
artist who was heavily influenced by African art. Basquiat's use of vivid colors, crude lines, and
geometric shapes in his works was heavily influenced by African art.
Overall, the influence of African art on modern art has been significant. African art has inspired many
different movements in modern art, including abstract expressionism, surrealism, and neoexpressionism. African art's use of bold colors, geometric shapes, and the inclusion of natural
elements has had a lasting impact on modern art.