Check out one of Manju’s favourite picks of the most inspiring contemporary African artworks at the seventh edition of AKAA fair (Also Known As Africa) in Paris. We are inspired by the exuberant artworks of South African digital artist Ruan Jooste whose paintings are a celebration of the quirks and idiosyncrasies that mishmash into our shared commonalities, memories and nostalgia in a riot of fun, colour and wit. . The artist takes inspiration from the vibrant colors, landscapes, cities, towns and the rich cultures of his native home. There is a charm, sass and attitude in the artist’s series of fictional portraits which alludes to magic realism, but with a local, urban grit. . ‘ I want to continue to invite you into my world where anything and everything is possible, where old meets new, where no one is bound by the shackles of societal pressure’ he says. . Visit AKAA fair (@akaa_fair) last day show at Carreau du Temple with the works of Ruan Jooste (@ruanj_art) represented by Deepest Darkest Gallery (@deepestdarkest_art). Find out more about the show here : https://akaafair.com/ . Image 1: Boss Lady, 2022, courtesy of the artist and Deepest Darkest Gallery Image 2: Playa, 2021, courtesy of the artist and Deepest Darkest Gallery Image 3: Koek’N Tee, 2021, courtesy of the artist and Deepest Darkest Gallery Image 4: Phuza Lockdown, 2022, courtesy of the artist and Deepest Darkest Gallery Image 5: Fishy Fêshuns, 2021, courtesy of the artist and Deepest Darkest Gallery Image 6: Mama Jozi, 2022, courtesy of the artist and Deepest Darkest Gallery Image 7: Pumped Bra, 2021, courtesy of the artist and Deepest Darkest Gallery Image 8: Gucci Sistas, 2021, courtesy of the artist and Deepest Darkest Gallery Image 9: Lekka Bubblegum, 2021, courtesy of the artist and Deepest Darkest Gallery Image 10: Khaya Kween, 2021, courtesy of the artist and Deepest Darkest Gallery . #manjujournal #akaafair #Paris #SouthAfrica #ruanjooste #deepestdarkest #deepestdarkestgallery #artexhibition #africanart #artist