Promoting contemporary African art for environmental action

We are a UK-registered foundation that promotes and supports contemporary African artists, with a particular focus on those whose work addresses our environment, biodiversity, and the future of Africa's natural world.

What We Do

Bringing people closer to the work

We bring people closer to this work in several ways. We run intimate events, from private dinners and curated trips to small gatherings, that connect collectors, artists, and people who care deeply about Africa's cultural and natural landscape.

Our book, Afroprophetic: Art Transforming Minds and Nature, brought together ten leading African artists around the themes of climate, nature, and humanity's relationship with the continent.

Proceeds from our events and publications go directly to supporting emerging artists and funding our grant programme, which provides small grants to grassroots art projects across Africa that use creativity to address environmental and social issues.

The Name

A high point where you can see clearly in all directions

In geology, an arete is the sharp ridge formed where two glaciers meet: a high point where you can see clearly in all directions.

In Greek, arete means living up to your fullest potential. Both feel right for what we are trying to do.

Key Initiatives

Where our work comes to life

Publication

Afroprophetic: Art Transforming Minds and Nature

Our inaugural publication brought together ten leading African artists around the themes of climate, nature, and humanity's relationship with the continent. Featuring El Anatsui, Wangechi Mutu, Yinka Shonibare CBE RA, Romuald Hazoume, and others.

Profits support art projects across Africa that engage young people and communities in dialogue about the relationship between humans and the natural world.

Gathering

Maputo 2027

A five-day immersive experience in Maputo, Mozambique, bringing together an intimate group of guests at the intersection of contemporary African art and environmental conservation.

Featuring artist Mario Macilau and set against the vibrant cultural landscape of Mozambique's capital.

Grants

Creative Initiatives Fund

Small grants of $5,000 to $20,000 supporting grassroots creative projects across the continent. From summer art camps with environmental themes to interactive public exhibits and artisan collectives.

Each initiative uses art to connect communities and advance social and environmental missions. All grantees contribute to a peer network, strengthened by exchanges and shared learning.

Our Reach

Building momentum across the continent

$5k-$20k

Grant Range

Targeted grants for creative initiatives that use art to advance social and environmental missions across Africa.

10+

Artists Championed

From El Anatsui and Wangechi Mutu to emerging voices, we spotlight artists whose work confronts our relationship with the natural world.

Countries Covered

Our projects span the breadth of the continent, from Mozambique's coastline to the Great Rift Valley across East and Southern Africa.