The exhibition African Expo: Black Queens – Women Driving Change will be on view from 7 to 18 July at the Atrium City Hall and Amare and is part of the official festival program of The Hague African Festival. The exhibition in Amare features an exclusive collection as an ode to African women and music, and in the Atrium the visitor is taken along and told the story of female icons who brought about important changes.

African Expo is an annual program by Nteasee Foundation in which young people and visual artists embark on a shared journey through the rich cultures and current themes of Africa and the African diaspora. Each year, the program focuses on a specific theme. In 2025, the theme is: Black Queens – Women Driving Change.

The African Expo 2025 presents a special exhibition celebrating the power and influence of Black women from Africa and the diaspora. Both historical and contemporary figures, such as Yaa Asantewaa, Nina Simone, and Michelle Obama are honoured. In collaboration with Stichting Topaze, The Hague African Festival offers young people from various neighbourhoods in The Hague the opportunity to explore these stories and translate them into visual art.

During six workshops of 90 minutes each, participants from diverse backgrounds will be guided in creating their own artworks. They will choose which women to represent and in what form paintings, sculptures, or collages. Research into the history and significance of these women is an essential part of the process. Through this, the participants not only gain space for creative expression, but also deepen their understanding of heritage, identity, and social change.

The workshops are led by professional visual artists and educational specialists from Foundation Topaze, with extensive experience in art education and cultural history. Participants are recruited through art institutions, schools, and local networks in The Hague.

Additionally, the artworks will be showcased during AfroBeats in the Park on Sunday 3 August 2025. The exhibition is curated by Frieda Verwer, board member of Foundation Ntease.

About African Expo
The program offers children and young people an inspiring learning experience, while also providing a meaningful platform for visual artists from Africa and the diaspora. Through their art and stories, they inspire, connect, and empower diverse communities. By actively participating, young people build confidence and develop their creative and cultural awareness.
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