Art Chooses Us

“Art Chooses Us” is a poetic and visually compelling short documentary that delves into the reflections on the African art scene through the eyes of four diverse artists from four different African countries. Each artist, practicing a distinct craft, shares their contemplations on what it means to be an artist in Africa today.

Director: Tomas Kamphuis
Director of Photography: Max Jansen
Editors: Jeffrey Richardson & Tomas Kamphuis
Production: Salt Amsterdam
Fixer: Ana Sofia Manuel Viegas
Sound design: Maurits Verwoerd
Color grading: Vanneau
Titles: Lais Berbigier
Special thanks: Yev Kravt and Maloney Amsterdam

Art Chooses Us is a deeply personal exploration of Africa’s diverse and evolving art scene through the stories of four extraordinary artists: Sunny Dolat, a fashion stylist from Kenya; Kampire Bahana, a DJ from Uganda; Kwame Sousa, a visual artist from São Tomé; and Yves Sambu, a photographer and performer from Congo. The documentary reflects on how art is more than a career for these artists—it is a calling, often pursued in the face of immense challenges. My goal was to capture their unique voices and perspectives, allowing their stories to unfold naturally while challenging stereotypes often imposed on Africa. Through their work, the film addresses themes of identity, resilience, and empowerment, celebrating African creativity and its promising future. Ultimately, I hope Art Chooses Us opens minds, offering a nuanced portrayal of Africa and inspiring a greater appreciation for its rich artistic diversity.