Edition 2022: Ivory Coast
Nomad Identity
For its second edition, ellipse art projects turned its attention to Ivory Coast, dedicating its call for applications to artists of Ivorian nationality or residing in the country.
Assoukrou Aké,
Winner of the edition 2022
The call for applications was open from April 1 to May 28, 2022 and the theme was “Nomad Identity”:
With the development of new technologies, access to information and the explosion of migratory movements, the standardization phenomena and identity claims are intermingling, opposing or annihilating each other.
In this way, the notion of “identity” becomes nomadic, changing and even paradoxical: it is in perpetual motion, evolving overtime and depending on the experiences of each individual or group.
With its cosmopolitan, multi-lingual and cultural outlook, Ivory Coast is a country open to the world, attracting many of the continent’s artists and fostering the blossoming of a new generation of creators. The country has a very dynamic creative scene, full of influences, with a growing number of established and internationally recognized artists.
67 artists sent their applications for this Ivorian edition. 5 finalists with multiple inspirations and practices were shortlisted by a jury composed by contemporary art professionals, who then nominated Assoukrou Aké as the winner.
The artist benefited from a solo show during AKAA – Also Known As Africa from October 20 to 23 2022, in Paris
The reward for the winner
A production grant and professional support
Bespoke professional support and bursary amounting to €5,000 were awarded to enable his exhibition project.
A 360° communication campaign
A visibility campaign was dedicated to the artist, including a presentation of his work in an art book published for the occasion, alongside world-renowned artists.
A solo show at AKAA
During his stay in France, the artist had the opportunity to prepare, exhibit and sell his work for the first time at the international AKAA fair.
Finalists of the 2022 edition
Each year, the ellipse prize jury also rewards 4 finalists for their work.
Press releases
Our partners for this second edition
Selection Committee 2022
Victoria Mann
Founding Director, AKAA Fair
Bénédicte Alliot
Director of the Cité internationale des arts
Gazelle Guirandou
Founding Director, LouiSimone Guirandou Gallery
Isabelle Zongo
Founding director of Original Foundation, collector
Auguste Errol Mimi
Art critic, curator
Jems Koko Bi
Sculptor and performer
