Celebrate the grace and resilience of African women, depicted through the symbolic act of drawing water—a testament to their enduring beauty and vital role within the family unit.
The name "Mami Nyanga" conjures images of serene village women, epitomizing natural elegance and maternal strength, and pays homage to these indispensable figures with the reverence they deserve.
The creative process behind this collection is a testament to the harmonious blend of traditional artistry and modern technology. Utilizing AI to generate initial character concepts, the artist meticulously redraws and personalizes each element, imbuing them with a unique style that seamlessly integrates innovation with artistic sensibility. This fusion results in illustrations that are both contemporary and deeply rooted in cultural heritage.
The featured artworks place a significant emphasis on traditional African hairstyles, celebrating their intricacy and the rich cultural narratives they embody. Each hairstyle within the collection tells a unique story, conveying cultural values and personal identity, and inviting viewers to appreciate the diversity of African traditions. These visual narratives are more than just artistic expressions—they are calls to embrace and honor one's cultural heritage.
At the heart of this exhibition is a mission to revive and share the ancestral cultural treasures that have shaped African history. The artist's goal is to break down barriers and showcase the beauty of African culture to a global audience, promoting an inclusive and authentic vision of Africa that challenges and transcends stereotypes.
To young artists inspired by their cultural heritage, this exhibition serves as a beacon. It encourages them to delve into ancestral traditions, stories, and symbols to fuel their creativity, and to embrace and share their cultural identity through their art. By doing so, they contribute to a diverse and authentic representation of Africa on the global art stage.
Curators Statement (JuuJuuMama)
"Mami Nyanga is an ode to the beauty, strength, and richness of African culture. Through Verlaine's innovative process of blending technology and tradition, this exhibition brings diverse African representations to the forefront, inviting the world to celebrate and honor the continent's heritage."
"Itan" translates to "story" or "history" in Yoruba. Yoruba people are one of the largest and most culturally significant ethnic groups in West Africa. Yoruba culture is known for its vibrant and expressive arts, including sculpture, textiles, music, dance, and storytelling. Yoruba art has a strong emphasis on symbolism and spirituality and has influenced the broader African art world. Itan Foundation World isn’t just about displaying art, but also about telling the stories and histories of West African artists, their cultures and their creative journeys. Each artwork is selected for its ability to evoke a sense of storytelling and exploration.