Souleymane Keïta

Born in 1947 on the historic Island of Gorée in Senegal, Souleymane Keïta's artistic journey unfolded at the crossroads of tradition and innovation, leaving an indelible mark on the post-independence art scene.

Souleymane Keïta's artistic odyssey began at the Ecole des Arts de Dakar, where he honed his craft under the guidance of esteemed artists like Iba Ndiaye. His explorations knew no bounds, traversing various media, including painting, fresco, mosaic, and ceramics.

Souleymane Keïta's Art Style

Souleymane Keïta's trajectory diverged from the aesthetics of the early Ecole de Dakar in the mid-1970s. A transformative journey to Mali and a subsequent sojourn in New York from 1980 to 1985 marked significant turning points in his artistic evolution. Embracing influences from American abstraction and his Mandinka heritage, Souleymane Keïta forged a distinctive aesthetic—a visual symphony born of personal experiences and global inspirations.

The 1990s witnessed the emergence of the "Scarifications and Chemises du chasseur" series, showcasing Keïta's profound reconnection with his Mandinka culture. Incorporating sewn thread, fabric fragments, and amulets into his works, he infused life and potency into his canvases, offering a unique amalgamation of tradition and innovation.

As the 2000s unfolded, Souleymane Keïta delved into the "Criquet and Synthèse" series. Exploring diverse techniques beyond painting, including engravings, inks on paper, ceramics, and tapestries, Souleymane Keïta's artistic expression knew no boundaries.

Throughout his prolific career, Souleymane Keïta worked on multiple series concurrently, showcasing a mastery that culminated in the exclusive dedication to the "Synthèse" series in the 2010s. Aptly named, this series encapsulates the synthesis of Keïta's diverse works and movements, a testament to his artistic versatility.