AFRICAN ARTS

Scope & Guideline

Diving into the Heartbeat of African Creativity

Introduction

Delve into the academic richness of AFRICAN ARTS with our guidelines, detailing its aims and scope. Our resource identifies emerging and trending topics paving the way for new academic progress. We also provide insights into declining or waning topics, helping you stay informed about changing research landscapes. Evaluate highly cited topics and recent publications within these guidelines to align your work with influential scholarly trends.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN0001-9933
PublisherMIT PRESS
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited States
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 2002 to 2024
AbbreviationAFR ARTS / Afr. Arts
Frequency4 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
AddressONE ROGERS ST, CAMBRIDGE, MA 02142-1209

Aims and Scopes

The journal 'African Arts' serves as a pivotal platform for the exploration and dissemination of scholarly work related to African art and culture. Its aims and scopes reflect a commitment to understanding the multifaceted nature of African artistic expressions, their historical contexts, and their global impacts.
  1. Interdisciplinary Approaches to African Art:
    The journal embraces a variety of disciplines, including history, anthropology, sociology, and cultural studies, to provide a comprehensive understanding of African art and its significance.
  2. Decolonization and Cultural Heritage:
    A consistent focus is placed on the decolonization of art narratives, addressing colonial legacies and advocating for the restitution of cultural artifacts.
  3. Contemporary and Traditional Art Forms:
    The journal covers both contemporary and traditional African art, exploring how these forms interact, influence, and inform each other.
  4. Art as a Social Commentary:
    Research often emphasizes the role of art in social, political, and economic contexts, analyzing how artistic practices reflect and respond to societal challenges.
  5. Global Perspectives on African Art:
    The journal also highlights the global implications of African art, including diasporic influences and the intersection of African art with international art movements.
The journal 'African Arts' has seen a rise in the exploration of several trending and emerging themes in recent years, reflecting evolving societal dynamics and academic interests. These themes highlight the journal's responsiveness to contemporary issues and its commitment to fostering innovative discourse.
  1. Intersection of Art and Technology:
    Recent publications increasingly address the intersection of art and technology, particularly in the context of AI and digital media, reflecting the changing landscape of artistic production.
  2. Fashion and Identity:
    There is a growing emphasis on fashion as an art form and its role in identity formation, particularly within African and diasporic communities, highlighting the cultural significance of clothing.
  3. Queer Perspectives in African Art:
    Emerging themes include queer identities and expressions in African art, signaling a broader recognition of diverse narratives and experiences within the artistic discourse.
  4. Community and Social Engagement:
    A trend towards examining the role of art in community building and social activism is evident, as scholars increasingly explore how art practices contribute to social change.
  5. Environmental and Ecological Art:
    The journal is also witnessing a rise in themes related to environmental issues and sustainability, reflecting the global urgency of ecological concerns within the context of African art.

Declining or Waning

While 'African Arts' continues to evolve, certain themes that were once prominent in its publications appear to be waning in frequency and emphasis. This decline may reflect broader shifts in academic focus or changing societal contexts.
  1. Traditional Art Forms Exclusively:
    There has been a noticeable decline in the focus on purely traditional art forms without contextual analysis. The recent trend favors a more integrated approach that connects traditional practices with contemporary issues.
  2. Art Historical Narratives Without Decolonial Perspectives:
    Previous discussions centered solely on art historical narratives are diminishing, as there is a growing demand for decolonial perspectives that challenge Eurocentric frameworks.
  3. Singular Cultural Contexts:
    The journal seems to be moving away from papers that analyze African art in isolation from global influences, as interdisciplinary and comparative analyses gain traction.
  4. Focus on Individual Artists:
    While individual artist studies remain significant, there is a shift towards collective movements and broader cultural phenomena, reducing the frequency of isolated artist profiles.

Similar Journals

OXFORD ART JOURNAL

Navigating the Rich Tapestry of Artistic Practices
Publisher: OXFORD UNIV PRESSISSN: 0142-6540Frequency: 3 issues/year

Oxford Art Journal, published by Oxford University Press, serves as a vital platform for scholarly discourse in the fields of History, Visual Arts, and Performing Arts. With an ISSN of 0142-6540 and an E-ISSN of 1741-7287, this esteemed journal has cultivated a rich academic presence since its inception, reflecting a deep commitment to exploring the intricacies of art history and contemporary visual culture. Holding a Q2 ranking in Visual Arts and Performing Arts and a Q3 ranking in History for the year 2023, the journal features rigorous peer-reviewed articles that push the boundaries of research and offer new insights into artistic practices. Although not offering open access, the journal is widely respected for its contributions to the academic community, making it invaluable for researchers, professionals, and students deeply engaged in art studies. For those seeking a comprehensive understanding of the visual arts landscape, the Oxford Art Journal remains an indispensable resource.

Kunstiteaduslikke Uurimusi

Engaging Minds in the Study of Culture
Publisher: ESTONIAN SOCIETY ART HISTORIANSISSN: 1406-2860Frequency: 4 issues/year

Kunstiteaduslikke Uurimusi is a notable academic journal published by the Estonian Society Art Historians, dedicated to the exploration and analysis of art and cultural studies within the vibrant context of Estonia and beyond. With an ISSN of 1406-2860, this journal offers a platform for researchers, professionals, and students to disseminate their findings and engage in meaningful discourse in the fields of Arts and Humanities and Cultural Studies. Although it occupies a fourth quartile ranking in both fields, the journal's commitment to fostering scholarly dialogue is evident through its open access provision, facilitating the sharing of knowledge across disciplines. Covering a broad spectrum of art historical themes since its inception, Kunstiteaduslikke Uurimusi aims to contribute to the understanding of artistic practices and cultural phenomena, making it an essential resource for those interested in the intersections of art, culture, and society. The journal continues to evolve, with coverage extending from 2011 to 2024, reflecting the dynamic nature of the arts and cultural sectors.

Nka-Journal of Contemporary African Art

Exploring the Vibrant Narratives of Contemporary African Art
Publisher: DUKE UNIV PRESSISSN: 1075-7163Frequency: 3 issues/year

Nka-Journal of Contemporary African Art is a premier academic publication dedicated to exploring the rich tapestry of contemporary African art and its intersections with culture, society, and identity. Published by DUKE UNIVERSITY PRESS, this journal offers a platform for critical discourse and innovative research within the fields of Visual Arts and Anthropology, earning a commendable ranking in both categories, with a Q2 designation in Visual Arts and Performing Arts. Established in 2019, Nka serves to illuminate the dynamic and evolving narratives of African artists, providing a vital connection for scholars and practitioners engaged with African cultural production. Although currently not open access, the journal aims to foster intellectual engagement and promote inclusivity in the arts, making it an essential resource for those seeking to deepen their understanding of contemporary African artistic practices. With an address based in the heart of Durham, North Carolina, Nka invites contributions from a diverse range of voices to enrich the discourse surrounding contemporary African art.

GOYA

Illuminating the Intersection of Art and Culture
Publisher: FUNDACION LAZARO GALDIANOISSN: 0017-2715Frequency: 4 issues/year

GOYA, published by the esteemed FUNDACION LAZARO GALDIANO, is a pivotal journal in the field of Visual Arts and Performing Arts. With an ISSN of 0017-2715, this Spanish journal serves as a critical platform for scholars, artists, and practitioners to engage with contemporary issues, trends, and methodologies in the arts. Since its inception, GOYA has strived to illuminate the intersection of artistic expression and cultural discourse, with coverage spanning from 2002 to 2024. The journal proudly holds a Q3 category ranking in the 2023 Scopus assessments for its field, reflecting its respected position among peers, with a notable rank of #377 out of 667. Though it does not follow an Open Access model, GOYA continues to contribute significantly to the academic landscape, enabling a deeper understanding of artistic practices and their societal implications. Researchers and students alike will find the journal an invaluable resource for insights and inspiration within the dynamic realm of the arts.

ZEITSCHRIFT FUR KUNSTGESCHICHTE

Engaging Minds Through Artistic Inquiry
Publisher: DEUTSCHER KUNSTVERLAG GMBHISSN: 0044-2992Frequency: 4 issues/year

ZEITSCHRIFT FUR KUNSTGESCHICHTE is a prestigious journal dedicated to the study of art history, offering insightful analyses and discussions that enrich the understanding of visual arts and performing arts. Published by DEUTSCHER KUNSTVERLAG GMBH in Germany, this journal has established itself as a significant platform for researchers and professionals alike since its inception. With a print ISSN of 0044-2992 and an e-ISSN of 2569-1619, it spans a comprehensive range of topics in art history, reflecting both traditional and contemporary perspectives. Although categorized in the Q4 quartile for Visual Arts and Performing Arts, the journal contributes to a rich dialogue within its field, aiming to foster academic discourse and promote scholarly research. Its scope has evolved notably from converged years starting in 1975 and gathering strength from 2001 to 2024, and it is committed to serving as an essential resource for students, academics, and practitioners in the arts. While not offering open access, the journal maintains a rigorous peer-review process to ensure high-quality submissions that advance knowledge and stimulate critical thought.

Experiment-A Journal of Russian Culture

Fostering Dialogue on Russia's Cultural Identity
Publisher: BRILLISSN: 1084-4945Frequency: 1 issue/year

Experiment-A Journal of Russian Culture is a distinctive publication dedicated to exploring the multifaceted dimensions of Russian culture, encompassing literature, art, and social history. Published by BRILL, a respected name in academic publishing, this journal provides a platform for original research and insightful discourse, fostering a deeper understanding of Russia's rich cultural heritage. With an ISSN of 1084-4945 and an E-ISSN of 2211-730X, the journal is organized in a quarterly format, although it has seen varied publication years from 1996 through 2023. While it currently holds a Q4 ranking in both Cultural Studies and Visual Arts and Performing Arts, its commitment to interdisciplinary inquiry makes it a vital resource for researchers, professionals, and students interested in contemporary and historical Russian cultural phenomena. Despite its modest impact factors, the journal remains an essential platform for the dissemination of critical perspectives and theoretical frameworks, contributing to the ongoing dialogue about Russian identity and its artistic representations. The journal is available in print and may have limited digital access options, making it all the more precious for collectors and libraries committed to cultural studies.

OUD HOLLAND

Unveiling Insights into Artistic Discourses
Publisher: BRILLISSN: Frequency: 4 issues/year

OUD HOLLAND is a prestigious journal published by BRILL, focusing on the rich history and developments in the visual arts and performing arts. With a historical lineage dating back to its initial publication years from 1883 and periodic revivals until 2024, this journal has maintained its relevance amidst evolving artistic discourse. It holds an impressive standing in the Arts and Humanities field, ranking 338 out of 667 in the Visual Arts and Performing Arts category, positioning it comfortably within the 49th percentile. The journal disseminates critical research and insightful articles that cater to scholars, professionals, and students dedicated to advancing their understanding of artistic heritage and contemporary methodologies. Though currently not open access, OUD HOLLAND represents an invaluable resource for those committed to exploring the multifaceted dimensions of art, offering access to a wealth of knowledge grounded in meticulous research and scholarship.

Artnodes

Unleashing Creativity in a Digital Age
Publisher: UNIV OBERTA CATALUNYAISSN: 1695-5951Frequency: 1 issue/year

Artnodes is a prominent academic journal published by UNIV OBERTA CATALUNYA, making significant contributions to the interdisciplinary fields of Arts and Humanities, Cultural Studies, and Computer Science. With an ISSN of 1695-5951 and an E-ISSN of 1695-5951, this Open Access journal has been accessible to the global community since 2002, encouraging the dissemination of innovative research and artistic exploration. Distributed from its headquarters in Barcelona, Spain, Artnodes has established itself as a vital resource, particularly in the domains categorized under Visual Arts, Performing Arts, and Literature, boasting a Q1 ranking in several areas for 2023. The journal is also noted for its impact in computer graphics and design, highlighting the integration of technology and art. With an impressive Scopus rank of #134 in Visual Arts and Performing Arts, this journal remains a critical forum for scholars and practitioners alike, facilitating dialogue and advancing knowledge across disciplines.

ARTMargins

Illuminating the socio-political contexts of artistic practice.
Publisher: MIT PRESSISSN: 2162-2574Frequency: 3 issues/year

ARTMargins, published by MIT Press, stands at the intersection of cultural studies, history, and the visual and performing arts. Since its inception in 2012, this journal has provided a platform for critical dialogue and scholarly inquiry into contemporary art and its socio-political contexts, exploring the margins of artistic practice and representation. With a current Q3 ranking in Cultural Studies and History, and a Q2 ranking in Visual Arts and Performing Arts, ARTMargins is recognized for its impactful contributions to its fields, despite facing significant competition. The journal caters to academics, professionals, and students eager to delve into nuanced analyses and interdisciplinary approaches that challenge traditional narratives. As an essential resource for those studying art's role in society, ARTMargins fosters a deeper understanding of how culture shapes and is shaped by ephemeral artistic expressions. While the journal operates under a subscription model, it remains committed to accessibility and wide-reaching discourse within the academic community.

Umeni-Art

Unveiling Artistic Insights for Future Generations
Publisher: INST ART HIST ACAD SCI CZECH REPUBLICISSN: 0049-5123Frequency: 4 issues/year

Umeni-Art is a prominent journal in the field of visual arts and performing arts, published by the Institute of Art History, Academy of Sciences, Czech Republic. With its ISSN 0049-5123 and E-ISSN 1804-6509, the journal has established itself as a critical platform for scholarly discourse and artistic expression since its inception in 2002. Although currently classified in Q4 within the Arts and Humanities category, it aims to elevate the understanding and appreciation of the arts through rigorous research and innovative perspectives. The journal's Scopus ranking places it at Rank #573/667, reflecting its growing contribution to the field and expanding reach within the artistic community. With a focus on fostering collaboration among researchers, practitioners, and students, Umeni-Art seeks to enrich the academic landscape with significant findings and discussions that inspire future research and creative endeavors. While it does not offer open access, the journal remains a valuable resource for those vested in exploring the dynamic interplay between art, culture, and society in the contemporary context.