The Old World with Jean-Baptiste Djeka

Jean-Baptiste Djéka is an Ivorian artist whose work feels rooted in culture and ancestry. Much of his inspiration comes from Akan traditions, evident in the strong lines and ancestral masks and figures that permeate his paintings.

These masked faces, symbols, bold shapes, or figures that feel spiritual and mysterious. Each piece pulls you in as you try to decipher the scenes. Djéka’s art reminds us that tradition is still alive in this modern age, and we should still make space for it because it’s all around us.

See some of our favourites below.

You can purchase Jean-Baptiste’s work on Artsy.