The Time is Always Now

Published to accompany an exhibition of the same name held at the National Portrait Gallery in the UK put together by acclaimed young curator Ekow Eshun, this book includes work by no less than 22 diasporan artists as well as extensive essays and commentaries. Sumptuous reproductions of works by Noah Davis, Kerry James Marshall and Njideka Akunyili Crosby are among the highlights, and the book as a whole stands as yet another testimony to the resurgent popularity of figurative painting in recent years. A few African artists who might also have been featured – Toyin Ojih Odutola, Amoako Boafo and Cinga Samson come to mind – are striking by their absence, but this caveat should take nothing away from the wonderful work that is included.