Ousmane Niang’s latest exhibition, “L’Heure du Regard,” currently on view at AFIKARIS Gallery in Paris until January 4, 2025, offers a profound critique of global sociopolitical dynamics, with a particular focus on the African continent. Through his distinctive pointillist technique and anthropomorphic figures, Niang delves into themes of corruption, youth exodus, and systemic inequality, urging both leaders and citizens to engage in collective action for sustainable change.

Born in 1989 in Tamba, Senegal, and a graduate of the École Nationale des Beaux-Arts in Dakar, Niang has consistently utilized his art to mirror societal issues. His earlier works often depicted human-animal figures to explore themes of domination and social hierarchy. In “L’Heure du Regard,” this approach evolves to portray a more harmonious integration of humans and nature, symbolizing the potential for unity and collective effort.

The exhibition draws inspiration from Mati Diop’s film “Atlantique” (2019), reflecting the struggles of African youth facing limited opportunities and the lure of emigration. Niang’s canvases vividly depict scenes of political corruption and the self-serving nature of the elite, as seen in works like “Accord politique” (2024). These portrayals serve as a call for leaders to acknowledge and address the pressing social realities affecting their nations.

A notable aspect of Niang’s work is his use of nails embedded in wooden panels, symbolizing the human masses bound together in solidarity. This visual metaphor emphasizes the artist’s belief that the solution to systemic poverty lies not in emigration but in harnessing natural resources and individual talents through unity and hard work. By highlighting pillars such as agriculture, education, and skill acquisition, Niang advocates for a sustainable and self-reliant economy.

Niang’s art transcends mere visual appeal; it is imbued with social satire and a compelling call to action. His meticulous pointillist technique, where each dot represents both a problem and its solution, invites viewers to contemplate and engage with the societal issues he presents. As he asserts, “Each point represents a solution to a social problem. My goal is to make art a factor of development and to introduce young people to research and creation so that they do not become just consumers.” 

In “L’Heure du Regard,” Ousmane Niang not only critiques the status quo but also inspires a vision of collective responsibility and proactive engagement. His work challenges both leaders and citizens to lower their gaze, confront societal challenges head-on, and collaborate towards a more equitable and prosperous future.

His unique approach and thematic focus continue to contribute significantly to contemporary African art, offering insightful perspectives on the challenges and potential pathways for the continent’s future.