Leveraging art markets by artists from Africa with a special interest in the Kenyan art scene: The discrete charm of the NFTs from an artist’s perspective

Abstract

This paper offers an overview of the African art scene, with a special focus on the Kenyan art scene. It will also examine non-fungible tokens (NFTs) as a new marketing tool and platform for artists from Africa, exploring how this technology has diversified artistic practices through experimentation beyond traditional painting and sculpture to video, performance art, installations, photography, and digital media. The paper does not delve into the technicalities of creating NFTs but presents an overview and experiences based on conversations with artists and a gallery owner based in Kenya. It also highlights key marketplaces available for minting and marketing NFTs online, noting those most popularly used by artists from Africa.