This page provides answers to commonly asked questions about the African Portrait Gallery (APG), its
mission, structure, and how individuals and institutions may engage with it.
What is the African Portrait Gallery (APG)?
APG is a cultural and archival institution dedicated to documenting, preserving, and interpreting the lives and contributions of individuals who have shaped Africa and people of African descent.
What is the primary mission of APG?
To build a disciplined and enduring visual and intellectual archive of leadership, influence, and human
achievement through portraiture and related forms of documentation.
Is APG a commercial platform?
No. APG operates as a cultural institution with a long-term archival and educational purpose.
Where is APG based?
APG is registered in Atlanta, the United States of America, but operates with a global African focus.
Who can be featured in APG?
Individuals whose lives and work have meaningfully advanced Africa or people of African descent.
JOINING APG
Who can join APG?
Artists, photographers, writers, researchers, curators, institutions, and supporters aligned with APG’s mission. You can join APG by completing the “Join APG” application form on the website and submitting the required materials.
Is membership automatic after applying?
No. All applications undergo a structured review process.
ARTISTS & PHOTOGRAPHERS
What type of artists does APG accept?
Primarily artists working in portraiture, especially those aligned with realism and strong narrative depth.
Can I submit multiple artworks?
Yes, within the limits defined in the application form.
Will my work be automatically exhibited?
No. Submission does not guarantee exhibition or inclusion.
WRITERS & RESEARCHERS
What kind of writers does APG work with?
Writers engaged in biography, history, criticism, and cultural documentation.
Can I contribute essays or research?
Yes, if found good enough, they will be subject to editorial review.
Are contributions paid?
This depends on the nature of the project and available resources.
Can I propose topics or subjects?
Yes. APG encourages thoughtful proposals aligned with its mission.
PARTNERSHIPS
Who can partner with APG?
Museums, universities, foundations, galleries, corporations, and cultural organizations.
How do I propose a partnership?
By submitting a request through the “Partner with Us” page.
What types of partnerships does APG accept?
Exhibitions, research collaborations, educational programs, sponsorships, and archival initiatives.
Does APG respond to all partnership inquiries?
APG responds selectively based on alignment and capacity.
SUPPORT & DONATIONS
How can I support APG?
Through financial contributions, artwork donations, or resource support.
Are donations tax-deductible?
his depends on APG’s current nonprofit status and applicable laws.
Can I donate artwork?
Yes, provided it aligns with APG’s curatorial standards.
How are funds used?
Funds support exhibitions, research, archives, commissions, institutional development, and mentorship programs.
IMAGE COLLECTIONS & CURATION
What is the “99 Model Image Project”?
A structured archival project documenting selected individuals across multiple categories that ensures the total number does not exceed 99
What is the “Spotlight” feature?
An introductory stage where individuals are presented for consideration before full curation.
What are “The Rooms” (LightRoom & DarkRoom)?
Curated visual spaces organized by photographic and artistic presentation styles.
Who decides who is included in APG?
Selections are made through a curatorial review process guided by APG’s institutional standards, and advice from our partners
GENERAL QUESTIONS
Does APG organize exhibitions?
Yes, both physical exhibitions in different countries around the globe, and and digital exhibtions at different times of the year
Does APG work internationally?
Yes, APG operates with a global African perspective.
Can I commission a portrait through APG?
Yes, via the “Commission a Portrait” page.
How can I stay updated on APG activities?
Through the website, publications, and future communication channels.
FINAL NOTE
If your question is not addressed here, we invite you to contact the African Portrait Gallery directly. All inquiries are reviewed with care and consideration.