Habibatou M Yaye Keita

Biography

Born in Bamako, Habibatou Yaye Keita is the daughter of a decorator and calligrapher by trade, with whom she developed a taste for drawing and painting with stencils from an early age. In 2017, she was admitted to the entrance exam for the Conservatoire des Arts et Métiers Multimédia in Bamako, graduating in 2020 with a degree in plastic arts.

Habibatou Yaye Keita, a contemporary painter from Mali, has carved a unique niche in the art world with her distinctive focus on self-portraiture. Through her art, she introduces herself to viewers while simultaneously undergoing transformative explorations of identity, often incorporating various hairstyles inspired by African traditions. This stylistic choice serves as a catalyst for profound reflections on themes such as the role and status of women in modern society, grounded in a steadfast commitment to preserving cultural origins.

In addition to her artistic exploration of identity and gender dynamics, Habibatou Yaye Keita uses her platform to raise awareness about vitiligo, a condition characterized by the development of white patches on the skin. Through her vibrant and engaging artwork, she advocates for self-acceptance and celebrates the beauty of diversity, urging individuals affected by vitiligo not to succumb to societal pressures to undergo depigmentation procedures.

Habibatou Yaye Keita’s artistic talent has been recognized and celebrated on both local and international stages. Her works have been featured in prestigious exhibitions and festivals across Africa, including the Street Arts Festival Assini in Ivory Coast, the RIPO 4th Edition in Burkina Faso, and the Pacte Mali exhibition at the Gallery Medina in Bamako, Mali. Her contributions to the art world extend beyond the canvas, as she continues to use her art as a vehicle for social commentary and advocacy, championing inclusivity, self-expression, and cultural heritage.