Decolonizing Art Histories in Congo: A Mixed-Methods Inquiry into New Perspectives and Methodologies

African art history has often been characterized by Eurocentric perspectives that marginalize local narratives, perpetuating a decolonization gap in understanding African artistic expressions and cultural practices. The mixed-methods design combines thematic analysis of historical texts with ethnographic fieldwork. Quantitative data on public engagement with local art forms will be collected through surveys, while semi-structured interviews will elicit insights from contemporary artists and cultural practitioners. Survey results indicate a significant interest in incorporating traditional Congolese elements into modern art practices (58% of respondents), highlighting the potential for reimagining artistic expressions within a broader historical context. This study demonstrates the feasibility and importance of integrating diverse methodologies to enrich African art histories, offering new pathways for inclusive research that respects local cultural heritage. Future researchers should prioritise triangulating qualitative and quantitative data to provide comprehensive insights into contemporary artistic expressions in Africa.