« The True Size of Africa » : an exhibition to deconstruct stereotypes

By the editorial staff

Organized by Völklinger Hütte, this exhibition brings together the works of 26 artists from various African backgrounds, including Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Each piece in the exhibition offers a unique perspective on Africa, beyond the clichés often perpetuated by the media and colonial history.

Ralf Beil, the exhibition’s curator, emphasizes the importance of giving Africa its rightful place in world history. « We underestimate Africa’s role in history and its own history before colonialism, » he states. The exhibition aims to remind visitors of Africa’s significance before colonization and highlight the influence Africans have had globally, particularly through the diaspora and cultural exchanges. « The music and dances we know today are of Afro-global origin, » Beil adds.

The Impact of natural resource exploitation

Among the most striking works in the exhibition is the video installation by Kongo Astronauts, a Congolese collective that uses astronaut imagery to denounce the tragedies linked to the exploitation of coltan in their country. Coltan, a mineral essential for the production of many electronic devices, has been the source of violent conflicts in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Pisko Crâne, a member of the collective, explains, « In the east of my country, people

are killed for coltan to make electronic devices. » Through their astronauts, Kongo Astronauts aim to remind the world of the global industry’s involvement in these human tragedies.

Africa and its global influence

This exhibition goes beyond geographical Africa, also exploring the continent’s cultural expansion worldwide. The featured artists highlight African heritage in areas such as music, dance, and visual arts, not only in Africa but also in the Americas, the Caribbean, and Europe. Cuban artist Susana Pilar Delahante Matienzo, who participates in the exhibition, describes Africa as « a great global family. » For her, the true size of Africa extends far beyond its geographic borders, encompassing its diaspora and global influence.

Rethinking Africa’s place in history

By redefining what « the true size of Africa » means, the exhibition encourages visitors to rethink the continent’s place in collective world history. It demonstrates that Africa is not a secondary actor, but rather a driver of cultural and social transformation. The exhibition reminds us that, despite the obstacles imposed by colonization and the exploitation of its resources, Africa has always been a land of innovation and influence. This message is reflected in the artists’ works, which push us to recognize the invaluable worth of African culture and celebrate its diversity.

For more information : Völklinger Hütte Exhibition