ABOUT

Art of Africa was founded in January 1991 by Zimbabwean Deborah Norman, in Walton Street, London. After three happy years, marriage and an impending baby saw it relocate to its present location at Fillingdon Farm, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, nestling in the Chiltern Hills of Buckinghamshire.

Since 1994, Art of Africa has annually presented two large mixed group exhibitions, in May/June and November at Fillingdon Farm, and is open by appointment for the remainder of the year. Each exhibition opens on a Saturday and runs for nine days until the end of the following Sunday, from 10am – 5pm.

Every exhibition is a combination of work by both new and familiar artists, with two common threads. Firstly, each artist has a link with Africa; most live there, but some travel out to paint or sculpt. Secondly, all work is original handcraft, made where possible from the natural materials for which Africa is famed; stone, silver, cotton, clay, wood, mohair, leather etc.

Deborah travels to Africa every year to hand-select the work herself. Countries currently listed are Kenya, Zimbabwe, Swaziland and South Africa, and where possible, each artist is visited personally, to establish a rapport, see how the work is created and to physically choose or commission art to be shown. That way, Art of Africa ensures that none of its exhibits are mass produced, and that the quality of each piece is supreme.

A wide range of work ensures there is something for every taste and pocket. Paintings adorn the walls of the beamed barn at Fillingdon Farm, whilst sculptures grace the lawn in summer. A log fires roars in winter in the 300 year old brick and flint farm cottage, which is bedecked with vibrant fabrics; sparkling jewellery, tactile ceramics and seasonal decorations. Whether it is a special gift or personal purchase; Art of Africa can provide the unique solution.

Craft items purchased at the exhibition can be paid for by cash, cheque or cards and taken on the day, whilst larger artworks are paid for initially, then collected or delivered once a show has closed. In-between exhibitions, work available for sale is shown on the website or by personal appointment.

A far cry from city galleries, Fillingdon Farm is a relaxed, family affair. Parking is plentiful; entry is free; refreshments are on offer; and dogs, grannies and children are all welcome to linger and enjoy the ambiance. Donations are gratefully received for Art of Africa’s two chosen charities, FARM-Africa and ZANE – Zimbabwe a National Emergency.

We look forward to welcoming you.