African art was not accepted as art until the late 19th century. It was given the titles "ethnic" or "primitive" but
it was denied the label art. Even Picasso denied the profound effect it had on him for years before finally admitting it.
Some critics argue that contemporary African art isn't really "African art." Contemporary African artists argue that
art isn't static- it evolves and contemporary African art reflects art through the African eyes today. Many feel it's
unfair to expect them to adapt their work to a village life of their past or a specific "African art" aesthetic. While
traditional African art has for the past century been legitimized as art, contemporary African artists are still struggling
to find acceptance
