The Short Century: Independence and Liberation Movements in Africa, 1945–1994

About

The Short Century, curated by Okwui Enwezor (Artistic Director for Documenta 11) for the Villa Stuck in Munich, makes its United States debut at the MCA. The first major survey to consider this dynamic and politically charged era in African art and history since independence, The Short Century includes the works by over 40 artists from 14 African nations. The breadth of work ranges from sculpture, photography, and painting to prints, drawings, film, and video. Artists include Yinka Shonibare, Kendell Geers, Jane Alexander, Georges Adeagbo, Kay Hassan, and Bodys Isek Kingelez, among others. A 400-page illustrated catalogue accompanies this multidisciplinary exhibition as well as an extensive film program.

The MCA presentation is coordinated by Manilow Senior Curator Francesco Bonami.

Funding

This exhibition is organized by the Museum Villa Stuck, Munich. Support for the Chicago presentation has been generously provided by the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, Donna and Howard Stone, the Kovler Family Foundation, the Chicago Community Trust, Ariel Mutual Funds, Abbott Laboratories Fund, Kenneth C. Griffin, Lynn and Allen Turner, and Robert and Sylvie Fitzpatrick. The Elizabeth Morse Charitable Trust is the generous sponsor of education programs for this exhibition. This program has been made possible in part by a grant from the Illinois Humanities Council, the National Endowment for the Humanities, and the Illinois General Assembly. Media support is provided by WVAZ FM, WGCI FM, and WGCI AM.