Bare walls are a crime against good taste. Thankfully, African wall art exists to set things right. It’s bold, it’s inventive, and behind every piece hides a story that pulls you in.
Today, I’m walking you through seven types of African wall art that never fail to wow. Painted masterpieces, woven baskets, carved shields, and more. Consider this your crash course in turning empty walls into conversation starters. Let’s dive in!
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1. Expressive African Paintings
African wall art doesn’t get more iconic than paintings. They’ve been created everywhere on the continent — by local street artists, regional names, and internationally recognized masters. Styles range from decorative to political, and techniques are just as varied.
Think of reverse glass painting in Senegal, sand painting in Nigeria, or collages from urban artists. There’s no shortage of creativity. You’ll find paintings sold in markets, galleries, online shops, and even at auction.
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How to Style Paintings
- Always hang at eye level (center of the artwork 57 to 60 inches from the floor works best).
- Decorative paintings are perfect for staircases or smaller corners.
- If you splurge on a statement piece, let it breathe. Over a console with a spotlight above is a favorite trick of mine.
2. Soulful African Photography
Photography in Africa is as wide-ranging as the continent itself. Landscapes, wildlife, everyday life in villages, and the energy of cities all find their way into stunning shots.
I personally adore striking black-and-white portraits. Artists like Zanele Muholi (South Africa), Seydou Keïta (Mali), and Malick Sidibé (Mali) shaped this genre into something unforgettable. Today, you can find both affordable and high-end African photography online and in galleries.
Where Photography Belongs
- Black-and-white portraits shine in the living room or home office.
- Landscapes calm down an entryway, bedroom, or staircase wall.
- Everyday life scenes deserve a central spot where people can pause and admire them.
3. Warm African Wall Baskets
If you know one form of traditional African wall art, it’s probably baskets. They come from everywhere — Ghana, Uganda, Rwanda, Zambia, and beyond. These woven wonders are sold by artisan cooperatives, ethical brands, or even on marketplaces like Etsy.
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Styling Wall Baskets
- Above your couch, bed, or console table.
- Create a full gallery wall with an assortment.
- Or let one oversized basket stand alone as a statement piece.
- They instantly add a soft, natural, and welcoming feel.
4. Masks with Meaning
Masks are probably the most famous African wall art form. The craftsmanship is unmatched, and West Africa in particular has produced breathtaking wooden masks for centuries.
As a West African myself, I’m biased, but my favorites are Senufo masks from Côte d’Ivoire and Punu masks from Gabon. Both have striking designs with deep cultural significance.
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Styling African Masks
- Transitional spaces love them: hallways, staircases, and entryways.
- They give these overlooked spots intention and life.
- In living rooms and dining rooms, they add presence and history.
5. Wood Carvings, Shields, and Panels
African woodwork is legendary, and wall carvings are among its finest expressions. Wooden shields from Cameroon, like Tikar and Bamileke designs, feature mesmerizing geometric lines. Then there are Dogon panels (Mali) and Yoruba panels (Nigeria), which are rich in symbolism.
Displaying Carvings
- Right at the entrance to make a bold first impression.
- In hallways, where people can pause and reflect.
6. Textile Wall Hangings and Framed Cloths
Textiles are another African treasure. Beyond clothing, they’ve long decorated homes. Mud cloth from Mali and Kuba cloth from the DRC are two of my personal favorites. Handmade, patterned, and unique, they’re showstoppers as wall art.
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Two Styling Tricks
- Large wall hangings look amazing above couches or beds.
- Narrow strips of cloth are gorgeous in a reading nook next to a beautiful chair.
- Framed textiles can go anywhere: console, dining room, or living room.
7. Murals and Wallpaper
Finally, murals and wallpapers bring African wall art to a grand scale. Traditional murals like those of the Ndebele people in South Africa are iconic. More neutral designs with geometric African-inspired patterns are also gorgeous. But if painting feels daunting, wallpapers are a fantastic alternative.
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Where to Use Murals and Wallpaper
- On an accent wall: behind the couch, bed, or dining table.
- On narrow walls around the house for an unexpected pop.
African wall art is the secret weapon of standout interiors
Forget sterile walls and “safe” decor — this is where you get to be unique, clever, and unapologetically bold. Opt for a set of handwoven baskets, a commanding mask, or wallpaper that brings African patterns into the now. Your walls become scene-stealers, and once you’ve seen your space with that kind of presence, there’s no going back to blank.
