Two Years On: Remembering Ijeoma Uche-Okeke
Video Interview with Ijeoma Loren Uche-Okeke. Up until her passing on September 1, 2022, she was the Chief Executive Officer of the Asele Institute, a cultural institution founded by her late father, master artist and scholar, Uche Okeke, in Nimo, Anambra state, Nigeria in 1958.
INTERVIEW by africa-related
Ijeoma Loren Uche-Okeke
1972-1922
Up until her passing on September 1, 2022, Ijeoma Loren Uche-Okeke was the Chief Executive Officer of the Asele Institute, a cultural institution founded by her late father, master artist and scholar, Uche Okeke, in Nimo, Anambra state, Nigeria in 1958.
In this interview conducted in January 2022 for the biographical documentary DELA: The Making of El Anatsui directed by Oyiza Adaba, Ijeoma spoke of Uche Okeke's distinguished legacy as the father of Nigeria's modernist art movement, as well as their relationship.
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Q&A With WORDS BY MOE On New Album BiG TIME!
INTERVIEW with WORDS BY MOE BY Africa-Related
Words By MOE
est. 1999
“Words are still powerful, and the right word at the right time is still very valuable”
This week, we share the work of Words By MOE, a self-styled inspirational writer and Spoken Word artist whose writings are reminiscent of scribes of old. His mastery of language, expert use of words, not to mention captivating delivery; have resulted in his 23-track debut album, titled BiG TIME!
Words play a central theme on the album, touching on various subject matters from life to faith and love. The sound is crisp and fresh, backed by multiple genres of music - from Hip Hop, Reggae to traditional African flute and drums. BiG Time delivers an array of richly blended sounds that drive home the lyrically-endowed artist's thought-provoking messages.
The album was jointly produced in New York and Jos, Nigeria by Africa-Related and Deep Waters Studios. It includes some collaborative work like ‘Bringing Back The Mic', a tribute to the late Gospel Hip Hop icon B-Elect featuring Minista Busta.
“The purpose is to encourage, build up and inspire others on this journey of Life.”
Q: You have two back-to-back projects coming up in August and September 2024. Could you speak to them individually on the inspiration and purpose behind Big Time Album and book, Spiritually Intact vol 1?
A: Honestly, this whole thing with the music is my wife’s idea.. so projects wise she’s the visionary. As for inspiration, all I do is write, and the motivation behind my expression stems from my love for the Word of Truth. The purpose is to encourage, build up and inspire others on this journey of Life.
Q: Which of the tracks in Big Time stands out to you the most and why?
A: The title track, Big Time.. It’s a piece that makes plain what’s required on our part to recognize what is past, so that we can realize our future; in order to be able to truly put things in perspective as far as priorities go, in our lives.
Q: The album contains 23 tracks backed by various music genres. Could you elaborate on your musical influences?
A: While I do appreciate a variety of musical sounds, I grew up influenced mainly by the ‘boom bap’, there’s something about that baseline that just got me as a kid, listening to a lot of hip hop, plus all the color, the styles and creativity, it was amazing at the time, not to mention ‘fresh’.
Q: SI volume one shows the beginnings of your writing? How would you say it has since evolved?
A: Honestly, I'm not so sure how much evolution there’s been, other than a sense of refinement perhaps and maybe more directness when it comes to elaborating on a particular subject. Both of which I attribute to maturity, as a student of the WORD.
Q: What is the importance of words, as a means of expression in today's world?
A: Still very important, as far as communicating goes; even though the way we relate these days is slightly different from last century. Words are still powerful, and the right word at the right time is still very valuable.
Q: You have been writing since 1999, and only just sharing your materials with the world. What would you attribute to this gap?
A: Time and chance, situation and circumstance. Up till now, I suppose I was okay sharing with a few people, until my wife decided it was time to share with the rest of the world.
Q: Your faith plays a key role in your overall outlook. How have you managed to sustain that since 1995, and what would you say to anyone who has lost faith.
A: Honestly, it’s the grace of The Almighty, abiding in the WORD, and learning a whole lot about Love. I might not be in a position to console a person who’s turned away, but I do believe that He doesn’t turn us away from coming to Him. So no matter what, never give up.
Q: What are thoughts to share about your connection to these two countries - Nigeria and the United States?
A: Just grateful for the opportunity to experience what life is like in different cultural contexts. Very interesting indeed, despite challenges on both sides.
Q: What future plans for your writing?
A: Same as always, just keep writing.
Q: What influences have shaped your writings over the years.
A: The Scriptures primarily, but also C.S. Lewis, Martin Luther King Jr., Frederick Douglass, J. B. Phillips… to name a few.
Q: You did some collaborative work on this album, and your love for Hip Hop is evident with the track Bringing Back The Mic (BBTM), which is a tribute to the iconic artist B-Elect. Could you speak on this?
A: Actually BBTM was written as a tribute to B on Jan 25, 2011. So when I was called upon to contribute to His memorial earlier this year, the piece instantly came to mind; thus the input.
Q: Your work was featured in the biographical documentary DELA:The Making of El Anatsui. What did you take out of working on that project?
A: Knowledge is what I took out, and gained a lot of it. I was fortunate to have a behind the scenes perspective and learn a thing or two about film making, which is no light task, plus the amount of patience, foresight and dedication required. So grateful for the exposure and experience.
Q: Do you have any closing thoughts?
A: None other than expressing my gratitude to GOD for making all this possible.
Thank you for your time.
Previous work by the artist
“I might not be in a position to console a person who’s turned away, but I do believe that He doesn’t turn us away from coming to Him. So no matter what, never give up.”
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Collaborators include Charles “DCharlie” Dapwadta, Uchenna “Minista Busta” Ohagwu, Inya, Raymond Noel “RayN” Ehusani, Esther Nyam, Suberu Mathew, Alex Raphael. Deep-Waters Production, Africa-Related Inc., Maurice E. Okereke, Oyiza Adaba, @akatah Isaac and Bonx muralist André Trenier @andre.trenier.
REMINDER! The centenary celebration of James Ene Henshaw (1924 -2007)
The centenary celebration of James Ene Henshaw (1924 -2007) will kick off with a seminar themed, ‘This Is Our Chance Revisited’, on August 29, 2024, from 12:00PM (WAT). The seminar is organized by the James Ene Henshaw Foundation.
Seminar Invitation by JEHF
“Beautiful. This Is Our Chance still remains my favourite novel from junior school”
The centenary celebration of James Ene Henshaw (1924 -2007) will kick off with a seminar themed, ‘This Is Our Chance Revisited’, on August 29, 2024, 12:00PM (WAT). The seminar is organized by the James Ene Henshaw Foundation.
The seminar will begin with Mallam Denja Abdullahi giving a brief introductory address and Peter Olorunnisomo summarising the play.
Dr. John Yesiebo of the University of Port Harcourt will speak on ‘Maintaining Tradition in the Onslaught of Modernity’. Director of Arojah Theatre, Abuja, Mr. Jerry Adesewo will speak on ‘Tribal Enmity – The Role of Theatre in Nation-building’. Dr Wale Okediran, Secretary-General of Pan-African Writers Association, will speak on ‘Damba and the Challenge of Leadership’; Dr Ekua Ekumah of the University of Ghana, Legon, on ‘The Role of Women in This Is Our Chance‘.
Prof. Liwhu Betiang of the University of Calabar on ‘Reflection – Why Henshaw is Important in the History of Nigerian Drama’. After a 30-minute break for comments and questions, Prof. Effiong Johnson of the University of Uyo will dwell on ‘Musings on the Plays of James Ene Henshaw’, with Dr. Patrick Jude Otteh of Jos Repertory Theatre making critical remarks to bring This Is Our Chance seminar to an end.
THE COLLECTED PLAYS OF JAMES ENE HENSHAW
THE COLLECTED PLAYS OF JAMES ENE HENSHAW. A collection of the major plays by the renowned playwright:
- This is Our Chance
- Jewels of the Shrine
- A Man of Character
- Medicine for Love
- Children of the Goddess
- Magic in the Blood
- Companion for a Chief
- Dinner for Promotion
- Enough Is Enough
Available Here:
- JEHF @ £20 (UK)
- Allrange Professional Bookstores, Lagos +2348034544428 N18,000 (Nig)
Scenes from THIS IS OUR CHANCE, Cultural Centre, Calabar, Dec. 2013. Photos by JEHF
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AUG. 21: Jazz saxophonist Godwin Louis To Perform New Album at the Newark Public Library
Grammy-nominated saxophonist Godwin Louis heads to Newark for the next installment of the WBGO After Work Jazz Series, part of the powerhouse jazz station’s 45th anniversary celebration. Louis will perform two concerts on Wednesday, August 21 — at 4:45 p.m. and at 6:15 p.m. — in the courtyard of the Newark Main Library.
Grammy-nominated jazz saxophonist Godwin Louis is headed to Newark for his album release celebration on Wednesday, August 21, for two concerts that are part of the WBGO After Work Jazz Series.
Louis’s sophomore album Psalms and Proverbs on Blue Room Music, a jazzy deep dive into religious traditions across the world, is being released globally on Friday, August 23. The concerts, which are made possible with the support of Audible and the Newark Public Library (where they will be held), will take place at 4:45 p.m. and 6:15 p.m.
Born in Harlem of Haitian heritage and raised in the Port-au-Prince and Bridgeport, Connecticut, Louis was a saxophone protégé. Then came his meteoric rise to stages across the globe, with studies or performances with the likes of Herbie Hancock, Ron Carter, Al Foster, Billy Preston, Patti LaBelle, Toni Braxton, Prince, Babyface, Madonna, Barry Harris, Howard Shore, Mulatu Astatke, Wynton Marsalis and more. In addition to being a top performer, he is also an assistant professor at the Berklee College of Music and at the forefront of bringing music education to Haiti and Africa as a music ambassador and humanitarian.
GODWIN LOUIS TO HEADLINE WBGO AFTER WORK JAZZ SERIES CONCERT
The August 21 event celebrates the international release of the Grammy nominee’s sophomore album, Psalms and Proverbs, on Blue Room Music
NEW YORK (August 12, 2024) — Grammy-nominated saxophonist Godwin Louis heads to Newark for the next installment of the WBGO After Work Jazz Series, part of the powerhouse jazz station’s 45th anniversary celebration. Louis will perform two concerts on Wednesday, August 21 — at 4:45 p.m. and at 6:15 p.m. — in the courtyard of the Newark Main Library. The appearance also marks the release of Louis’ sophomore album, Psalms and Proverbs, an exploration of the universality and joy of sacred music available internationally on August 23 on the Blue Room Music label. The concerts are made possible with the support of Audible and the Newark Public Library.
Born into a musical family in Harlem of Haitian heritage and raised in Bridgeport, Connecticut, and Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Louis has gone on to grace stages across the Americas, Europe, Asia and Africa. A favorite in New York, Boston and beyond, Louis is a composer-arranger-virtuoso soloist who began as a saxophone prodigy at nine, becoming a Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz Saxophone competition finalist. A graduate of Berklee College of Music and the prestigious Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz Performance, Louis has studied and performed with the likes of Herbie Hancock, Clark Terry, Ron Carter, Al Foster, Toni Braxton, Prince, Babyface, Madonna, Wynton Marsalis and the New York Philharmonic Orchestra, among many others. He is a 2024 Grammy nominee (for arrangements on singer Cécile McLorin Salvant's Mélusine) and a professor at Berklee College of Music.
He is also a humanitarian and businessman, having founded Experience Ayiti, a nonprofit educational, multidisciplinary arts organization in Haiti and The Godwin Louis Rooftop Club in Togo, which is dedicated to performances and educational programs that promote music education in Africa.
Band Group photo. Photo credit Blue Room Music
In Psalms and Proverbs, Louis draws on religious musical traditions around the world, including his Haitian roots — Haiti being where European, African and Native traditions converged to create the roots of jazz. The album showcases Godwin’s unique originality, deeply rooted in spirituals and gospel hymns, blending sophisticated harmonies, memorable melodies and infectious grooves. His music embodies the diverse sounds of the Afro-diaspora, incorporating elements from West Africa, Haiti, the Americas and Europe. The result is a harmonious tapestry that spans continents.
Performing will be Louis (saxophone); Philip Dizack (trumpet); Axel Tosca Laugart (piano); Johnny Mercier (organ); Savannah Harris (drums); and Or Baréquette (bass).“I’m looking forward to being a part of WBGO’s After Work Jazz Series and bringing praise to the people of Newark,” said Louis. “Let’s have church.”
Psalms and Proverbs is produced by Louis, Calvaire and Chan Jung.
The event at the Newark Public Library (5 Washington Street, Newark, NJ 07102) is free and open to the public with registration via Eventbrite. In the event of inclement weather, the event will happen indoors, in the Library.
6Psalms and Proverbs can be preordered now at https://orcd.co/godwinlouis or on August 23 at Spotify, iTunes, Tidal, Deezer, Amazon and more. For more information on Louis, visit https://www.godwinlouis.com.
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For interview and media inquiries, contact:
Cheryl L. Duncan, Cheryl Duncan & Company Inc., 201-552-9239 (O), cheryl@cdcprnews.com
Studio Visit with Yifat Bezalel
Oyiza Adaba stops by artist Yifat Bezalel’s studio in Manhattan during her residency program in New York.
By Oyiza Adaba, New York
Oyiza Adaba visits artist from Israel Yifat Bezalel, at her Manhattan studio during her residency program in New York. The soft-spoken Bezalel is trained as a classical and academic artist, and over the years she has established her unique technique. In her work process she superimposes semi transparent pencil layers of figurative and realistic images creating surreal realms. Her works have often been described as having an ethereal quality to them.
Yifat Bezalel, a classically trained artist with her unique technique of superimposing semi transparent pencil layers. (Photo: Africa-Related)
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PHOTOS: THE DAILY NEWS BUILDING, New York
Oyiza Adaba captures a glimpse of the ground floor of the historic Daily News Building in midtown Manhattan.
By Oyiza Adaba, New York
The Daily News Building, also known as The News Building, is a skyscraper at 220 East 42nd Street in the Turtle Bay neighborhood of Midtown Manhattan in New York City. The original building was designed by architects Raymond Hood and John Mead Howells in the Art Deco style, and was erected between 1928 and 1930.Wikipedia. Oyiza Adaba captures a glimpse of the ground floor of the historic Daily News Building in midtown Manhattan.
FACTSHEET
Address: 220 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017
Floors: 36
Architects: Raymond Hood, John Mead Howells
Height: 476′
Opened: July 23, 1930
Source: Wikipedia
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Laolu Senbanjo: Celebrated By Rolling Stone Africa
NEW YORK CITY weather is notoriously unpredictable. One moment, it’s a biting cold with residents huddling under layers of clothing; the next, a swelter-ing heat forces them to retreat into air-conditioned havens. For Laolu Senbanjo, the city’s erratic climate has a peculiar irony. Here’s a Nigerian man, used to the scorching unforgiving sun of his homeland, lamenting on the New York heat. But after spending years away from Nigeria, this paradoxical gripe was a testament to how deeply he had integrated into his new environment.
With his roots in Yoruba heritage, Laolu Senbanjo transforms every surface into a bold canvas, making waves from the streets of New York to the global stage and redefining what it means to be an African artist.
BY NICOLE ASINUGO
Excerpts from Rolling Stone Africa
NEW YORK CITY weather is notoriously unpredictable. One moment, it’s a biting cold with residents huddling under layers of clothing; the next, a swelter-ing heat forces them to retreat into air-conditioned havens. For Laolu Senbanjo, the city’s erratic climate has a peculiar irony. Here’s a Nigerian man, used to the scorching unforgiving sun of his homeland, lamenting on the New York heat. But after spending years away from Nigeria, this paradoxical gripe was a testament to how deeply he had integrated into his new environment.
Laolu Senbanjo, popularly known as Laolu NYC, is an artist whose work is unmistakable, character-ized by its striking and intricate attention to detail. His art transcends traditional canvases, finding expression on everything from sneakers to bottles, walls, and even bodies. “Everything is my canvas,” he proclaims, a mantra perfectly encapsulating his artistic philosophy. His work, a fusion of ancient African traditions with modern pop culture, tells stories of his Yoruba heritage, spirituality, and the human experience.
““New York is a place where you can reinvent yourself... I was just another face in the crowd, but I felt seen in a way I hadn’t before.””
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Tribute to Tam Fiofori: Keen Chronicler of Nigerian Culture
Bruce Onobrakpeya pays tribute to Tam Fiofore “UNCLE TAM” (1942-2024). Nigerian Filmmaker Visionary Historian Critic
By Bruce Onobrakpeya
Tam Fiofore “UNCLE TAM” (1942-2024). Nigerian Filmmaker Visionary Historian Critic
Tam Fiofori, was a visionary filmmaker, photographer, and writer, whose indelible mark enriched Nigeria's artistic realm profoundly.
Tam Fiofori's creative brilliance shone brightly across our cultural landscape, yet our society's nurturing of his genius fell short. In comparison to his equally talented peers in more supportive settings, Tam's full potential may not have been fully realized.
To honour his legacy and support future luminaries, our society must establish genius grants and specialized funds. These initiatives empower gifted individuals to create impactful contributions, fostering a nurturing environment where their creativity can flourish. Such support not only enhances their productivity but also enriches our collective cultural fabric.
Nigeria remains a reservoir of exceptional talents like Tam, yet many struggle to realize their full potential due to inadequate support structures. Despite their occasional reclusiveness or rebellious nature, these geniuses deserve our steadfast protection.
Remembering kindred spirits like Ayodele Awojobi, Ola Balogun, Tijanni Mayakiri, Jimi Solanke and Oyiza Adaba underscores the importance of organizations like CORA, dedicated to celebrating our true talents.
Tam's absence leaves a void among close friends and fellow participants at the Harmattan workshop, organized by the Bruce Onobrakpeya Foundation, where his presence was deeply felt and cherished. His legacy as a confidant, friend, and artistic luminary who was a keen Chronicler of Nigerian culture, will endure, inspiring generations to come.
Bruce Onobrakpeya resides in Lagos. He is UNESCO Human Livng Treasure, Founder and Foundational Member of the Annual Harmattan Workshop
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Extremely Popular Play "This Is Our Chance" Revisited
This Is Our Chance, is arguably the first full-length play by an African author in the English language. Written while Ene Henshaw was a medical student in Dublin, Ireland, This is Our Chance, has undergone many reprints, and has been extremely popular in West Africa since its first production by the Association of Students of African Descent in Dublin in 1948.
This Is Our Chance, is arguably the first full-length play by an African author in the English language. Written while Ene Henshaw was a medical student in Dublin, Ireland, This is Our Chance, has undergone many reprints, and has been extremely popular in West Africa since its first production by the Association of Students of African Descent in Dublin in 1948.
Since its publication in 1956, it has gone on to become one of the classics of African literature, read widely and performed in schools and colleges across the English-speaking Commonwealth.
Princess Kudaro and Prince Ndamu have been sent by their fathers, Chief Damba of Koloro and Chief Mboli of Udura, to be educated in a big city. Despite the fact that their communities have been long-standing rivals and venomously hate each other, they fall in love and enjoy the care-free anonymity of city life. However, both are simultaneously called back home to their villages.
Princess Kudaro is tutored in her father’s palace by Bambulu, an intelligent though self-important
and pompous character who has had a Western European education. Their quarrelsome relationship propels the central theme of the play, the tug between modernity in the western sense and traditional African customs and tradition. While Kudaro blindly and impetuously reacts to the stifling ways of life in the village, Bambulu argues for change, though his prescription verges around the more superficial aspects of western habits and conduct.
When Kudaro elopes with Ndamu, Bambulu becomes the scapegoat for her insurrection. He is arrested and threatened with death. Eventually, Kudaro falls into the hands of Mboli’s soldiers and in an ironic twist, Prince Ndamu is captured by Damba’s troops. Both chiefs, stubborn and fiercely proud, wrestle with the conflicting weights of tradition, enmity and parental love.
Common sense prevails and Damba releases Prince Ndamu with a message of peace to his father, Chief Mboli.
The themes and issues covered in This Is Our Chance: the tug between tradition and modernity, inter-tribal enmity, forbidden love and the challenges of leadership are as pertinent today as they were when the play was published.
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Bruce Onobrakpeya's THE MASK AND THE CROSS Opens in Washington D.C.
The Smithsonian’s National Museum of African Art is showcasing works by sculptor and printmaker Bruce Onobrakpeya, considered one the fathers of postcolonial Nigerian modernism. On view June 21 - Jan. 21, 2025.
by OYIZA ADABA, Washington D.C.
Front view of The National Museum of African Art at The Smithsonian Institution. Photo by Africa-Related
The Smithsonian’s National Museum of African Art is showcasing works by sculptor and printmaker Bruce Onobrakpeya, considered one the fathers of postcolonial Nigerian modernism.
Image of the artist Bruce Onobrakpeya, towering over his exhibition.
Opening Night: Guest curator Janine Gaëlle Dieudji with Lauren Tate Baeza Curator of African Art at the High Museum of Art in Atlanta and Mudiare Onobrakpeya of Bruce Onobrakpeya Foundation.
Oyiza Adaba takes viewers inside “Bruce Onobrakpeya's: The Mask and the Cross”, on view June 21 - Jan. 21, 2025. The exhibition features works by the artist from 1966 through 1978, a period when he completed multiple commissions for the Catholic Church, including his seminal “Fourteen Stations of the Cross” series. The exhibition also recognizes Onobrakpeya’s legacy - inspiring generations of visual artists in Nigeria - with artworks from the museum’s collection that reflect Onobrakpeya’s influence. The opening ceremony was graced with dignitaries from diplomatic corp to art lovers, collectors and family members.
The National Museum of African Arts is celebrating 60 years of showcasing unique art from Africa, with a summer lineup that also include, ‘Benin Bronzes’: Ambassadors of the Oba, ‘Before Nollywood: The Ideal Photo Studio’, Ayana V Jackson’s 'Into The Deep’, John Akomfrah’s ‘Five Mumirations’, and ‘Water in African Arts’ exhibitions.
“Blending Christian iconography, Nigerian folklore and West African traditions, Onobrakpeya’s art interprets spiritualism through a global lens. Biblical stories are presented with Nigerian characters and environments, such as the “Passion of Christ” depicting Roman soldiers in British military uniforms and Jesus in Nigerian robes. ”
Oyiza Adaba reports. Video courtesy of Africa-Related.
PHOTOS: AFRICA-RELATED
Full Video: "DELA" North American Premiere
Video Highlights of the biographical documentary that carefully captures the life of legendary artist El Anatsui, tracing the artistic endeavors that led to his rise in popularity in the global art world. It made an inspiring debut on Mother's Day, May 12th, 2024 at the prestigious Lincoln Centre in New York.
"DELA: The Making of El Anatsui", is an “in-depth” biographical documentary directed by Oyiza Adaba. It made its North American premiere at the New York African Film Festival (NYAFF31) on May 12th, 2024 at the prestigious Lincoln Centre. “DELA” is currently showing at global film festival before going into distribution. Follow the film’s progress here
DELA Director Oyiza Adaba, in front of Lincoln Center, New York. Photo: Galina Ivankovich/Africa-Related
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DELA: Makes North American Debut At 31st New York African Festival
The biographical documentary that carefully captures the life of legendary artist El Anatsui, tracing the artistic endeavors that led to his rise in popularity in the global art world, made an inspiring debut on Mother's Day, May 12th, 2024 at the prestigious Lincoln Centre in New York.
Moderator Ben Dotsei Malor and DELA Director Oyiza Adaba during the Q&A
Ihunmehai Isaac, New York
Photos: John Oko Nyaku, Africa Photo Communication
It was an eventful and beautiful Mother's Day on May 12th, 2024 at the prestigious Lincoln Centre, with guests trooping in with tickets in hand, to see the “in-depth” biographical documentary directed by Oyiza Adaba - "DELA: The Making of El Anatsui".
The story carefully and deliberately captures the life of legendary artist El Anatsui, tracing the artistic endeavors that led to his rise in popularity in the global art world.
“The film gave more essence to what we normally know of El...”
The screening witnessed an attentive audience engaging in the film, through moments of emotional connections that brought laughter, tears, and silence to the Frances Beale Theater at the prestigious Lincoln Center.
The screening was followed by a resounding applause and a Q&A session, moderated by Ben Dotsei Malor, former BBC Africa anchor and Chief Editor of United Nations News for Dailies.
Malor praised Oyiza Adaba's vision and called for the film to be shown in academic institutions across the world. He welcomed questions from the audience that expanded on the film's 10-year journey, the use of language, art appreciation and much more.
The first-time director explained her motivation to build on the work of previous documentations of the subject, to tell a more personal story. She expressed gratitude to the artist for his generous support, as well as the sponsors and crew who made it possible.
DELA Director Oyiza Adaba with El Anatsui’s Family members and Ben Malor (UN)
Notable guests present include the Anatsui and Ametewee Families, Tamsen Greene of Jack Shainman Gallery NY, the film's director of photography Jason Hill, Jazz musician Randy Muller, percussionist Ricky “Dirty Red” Gordon, Tyrone Birkett of New Freedom Sounds, and Words By MOE who contributed to the films soundtrack.
“As an African-American New Yorker with limited travel to Africa, it was wonderful to see the artist’s setting, in his culture...”
DELA Crew: Director Oyiza Adaba with Ghana Director of Photography Jason Hill
Guests were treated to a reception where they got to interact further with members of the production team.
Mahen Bonetti, the Executive Director and brainchild behind the New York African Film Festival, described DELA as “a masterpiece story that needed telling”. The long-running festival, which showcased over 50 films from 24 countries ends at the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) on June 1, 2024.
“DELA” is currently showing at global film festival before going into distribution. Follow the film’s progress here
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Photo Highlights DELA: North American Premiere at NYAFF31
Photo Highlights
DELA: North American Premiere at NYAFF31
photos by John Oko Nyaku (Africa Photo Communications)
Photo Highlights
DELA: North American Premiere at NYAFF31
May 12, 2024
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Highlights from NYAFF31 Opening Night with Tolu Ajayi
Celebrating a remarkable and extraordinary visit to Lanre Olagoke's Regent Street Studio in London, where I had the privilege of spending time with the esteemed artist and painter, Lanre Olagoke MBE.
Oyiza Adaba, New York
OVER THE BRIDGE
Director: Tolu Ajayi
Opening Night Film
New York African Film Festival (NYAFF31)
Screening/Q&A with Director
Wednesday May 8, 2024
Film at Lincoln Center, NY
The 31's edition of the New York African Film Festival (NYAFF31), opened with the screening of a Tolu Ajayi film "Over The Bridge". The 99-minute made in Nigeria drama made its North American Premiere at the prestigious Walter Reade Theatre Film at Lincoln Center.
On hand to welcome guests from over 25 countries, was NYAFF Executive Director and Founder Mahen Bonetti. Her vision of sharing African cinema since 1993, continues to bring budding and accomplished filmmakers together annually, in the big apple.
Film Synopsis Folarin is an accomplished investment banker with a beautiful wife and a life most people can only dream of. When a high-profile government project his company was hired to manage goes awry, he starts to question everything he’s ever known to be true. After going missing, he discovers himself in a remote fishing village and starts to put together the missing pieces—but will he ever find his way back home?
PHOTOS
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Plastic Present/Fluorescent Future
"Plastic Present/Fluorescent Future: An Artistic Exploration of Plastic Pollution and the Impact of Abandoned, Damaged and Lost Fishing Gear ( ADLFG) on Marine Life" by Beatrice Bee Arthur
BY OYIZA ADABA, NEW YORK
"Plastic Present/Fluorescent Future: An Artistic Exploration of Plastic Pollution and the Impact of Abandoned, Damaged and Lost Fishing Gear ( ADLFG) on Marine Life" by Beatrice Bee Arthur
In a violently thought-provoking exhibition, Beatrice Bee Arthur joins the many artistic voices which seek to hold up a mirror to society and shed more light on one of the darkest and greatest environmental challenges of our time: plastic pollution and the deadly impact of nylon fishing nets on marine life.
Dubbed "Plastic Presence of a Fluorescent Future" this expo serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need to address the pervasive issue of oceanic degradation and ubiquitous presence of plastic bottles. Through the medium of a spectacular installation comprised of nylon fishing nets, broken mannequins, plastic forks ,straws, plates, dried coconuts, shells, plastic bottles, polyethylene sheets, a wooden board from a broken canoe, flattened aluminium coffee capsules and a broken mirror, Bee Arthur offers a unique perspective on the detrimental effects of human activity and plastic pollution on marine ecosystems and the planet as a whole.
Visitors to the Mother Earth Festival 2024 on the grounds of Aburi Botanical Gardens are confronted with powerful imagery depicting the stark reality of plastic waste choking our oceans, destroying our marine life and the devastating consequences for our environment. The mannequins, draped in discarded plastics, nylon nets and upcycled plastic products, serve as tangible reminders of the sheer volume of debris that finds its way into our lives and seas each day, and the extent to which we have become indifferently accustomed to its omnipresence.
Yet, amidst the somber portrayal of our plastic-laden present, Arthur offers glimpses of hope and resilience as she juxtaposes black nylon fishing nets with a vision of a fluorescent future where innovation and collective action lead to sustainable solutions and a brighter future. Through this captivating fashion and multimedia installation Bee Arthur explores innovative approaches to waste management, recycling, upcycling and eco-friendly alternatives.
The “Plastic Presence of a Fluorescent Future” expo not only serves as a platform for artistic expression through fashion but also sparks crucial conversations about consumer habits, corporate responsibility, and the importance of conservation efforts. Arthur hopes that visitors who engage with the installation will have discussions about the issues raised and explore actionable steps towards a more sustainable future.
"Plastic Present/Fluorescent Future" challenges us to confront the reality of our impact on the oceans while inspiring us to envision a brighter, more environmentally conscious tomorrow. It is a call to action for individuals, communities, and policymakers to take decisive steps towards preserving our planet's precious marine ecosystems for generations to come.
Plastic Present/ Fluorescent Future Expo is will last through the 27th and 28th of April 2024 as part of Mother Earth Festival organised by Green Butterfly Market. It is supported by Chaint Afrique/NetCycle & Creation Africa Ghana
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PHOTOS: The Global African Women’s Day 2024
A special Pan-African gala took place at historic Alhambra Ballroom in Harlem on March 16, 2024 during the annual two-week UN women’s conference, Commission on the Status of Women. The purpose of the gala and award ceremony was to celebrate Global African Women’s Day with African women and women of African descent from around the world, spanning; Africa, Latin America, Europe and the Caribbean.
By Oyiza Adaba, New York
A special Pan-African gala took place at historic Alhambra Ballroom in Harlem on March 16, 2024 during the annual two-week UN women’s conference, Commission on the Status of Women. The purpose of the gala and award ceremony was to celebrate Global African Women’s Day with African women and women of African descent from around the world, spanning; Africa, Latin America, Europe and the Caribbean.
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EL ANATSUI at TATE MODERN Until April 15
If you are in or close to London, love art and yet to see El Anatsui’s “Behind The Red Moon”, showing at Tate Modern’s Turbine Hall; the exhibition ends on April 15, 2024
By Oyiza Adaba, London
If you are in or close to London, love art and yet to see El Anatsui’s “Behind The Red Moon”, showing at Tate Modern’s Turbine Hall; the exhibition ends on April 15, 2024
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Art21 Partners with EXPO CHICAGO 2024
Chicago, Illinois – Art21 is thrilled to announce a partnership with EXPO CHICAGO, the city’s premier showcase of contemporary and modern art galleries. Returning April 11-14, 2024, to Navy Pier's Festival Hall, EXPO CHICAGO 2024: “A Fusion of Art, Dialogue, and Inspiration” is a dynamic convergence of artistic expression, thought-provoking discussions, and interactive initiatives celebrating the city's rich cultural heritage while spotlighting the vibrant contemporary arts community.
Media Contact
Hannah DeGarmo
Senior Manager of Communications
hannah@art21.org
Art21 Partners with EXPO CHICAGO 2024
Chicago, Illinois – Art21 is thrilled to announce a partnership with EXPO CHICAGO, the city’s premier showcase of contemporary and modern art galleries. Returning April 11-14, 2024, to Navy Pier's Festival Hall, EXPO CHICAGO 2024: “A Fusion of Art, Dialogue, and Inspiration” is a dynamic convergence of artistic expression, thought-provoking discussions, and interactive initiatives celebrating the city's rich cultural heritage while spotlighting the vibrant contemporary arts community.
Art21 will present two programs featuring several award-winning films as part of EXPO CHICAGO’s /Dialogues program as well as a public program at Gene Siskel Film Center featuring the artist Michael Rakowitz. Hosted in collaboration with the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC), /Dialogues offers engaging panel discussions featuring leading curators, artists, and arts professionals. From exploring the artist's civic responsibilities to addressing the role of art in times of crisis, this year's lineup will delve into pressing topics shaping the contemporary art landscape. Attendees can also look forward to the Soho House Snug, a designated space within the /Dialogues area, where they can connect with fellow art enthusiasts and enjoy stimulating discussions, book signings, and video presentations by Art21.
"Art21 is proud to partner with EXPO CHICAGO in bringing our films to the city, Art21’s largest audience in the Midwest,” says Tina Kukielski, Susan Sollins Executive Director and Chief Curator. “We’re also excited that celebrated artist Michael Rakowitz will be joining us in Chicago for a special screening of his Art21 film.”
Art21’s /Dialogues program at EXPO CHICAGO include:
“Award-Winning Art21 Films”
Friday, April 12th, Noon-1pm
Soho House Snug, EXPO's /Dialogues area
Experience a curated selection of acclaimed Art21 films from 2023, featuring artists such as Miranda July, Christine Sun Kim, and Kerry James Marshall. Jurrell Lewis, Art21 Assistant Curator, will lead a Q&A session following the screening.
“Art21 Presents Artists in Chicago”
Friday, April 12th, Noon-1pm
Soho House Snug, EXPO's /Dialogues area
Discover the creative voices shaping Chicago's artistic landscape through films showcasing artists like Nick Cave, Theaster Gates, and Jessica Stockholder. Emma Nordin, Art21 Director of Education, will host a post-screening Q&A session.
Art21 is also offering a public program at Gene Siskel Film Center:
“Art21 Presents Artist Michael Rakowitz in Conversation”
Saturday, April 13th, 1-2pm
Gene Siskel Film Center
Delve into the artistic journey of Michael Rakowitz with a screening of the Art21 Extended Play film "Michael Rakowitz: Haunting the West," followed by an insightful conversation with the artist. Tickets to this event are available to the general public (ie, guests don’t need a pass to EXPO CHICAGO to attend).
EXPO CHICAGO showcases leading contemporary and modern art galleries each April at Navy Pier’s Festival Hall, alongside a diverse and inventive program of talks, on-site installations, and public art initiatives. Inaugurated in 2012, EXPO CHICAGO draws upon the city’s rich history as a vibrant international cultural destination, while highlighting the region’s contemporary arts community. In 2023, EXPO CHICAGO was acquired by Frieze, the world’s leading platform for modern and contemporary art. Learn more at www.expochicago.com.
Art21 is the world’s leading source to learn directly from the artists of our time. A nonprofit organization, the mission of Art21 is to educate and expand access to contemporary art, producing documentary films, resources, and public programs. Learn more at Art21.org.
IMAGE: Michael Rakowitz in the New York Close Up film, “Michael Rakowitz: Haunting the West.” © Art21, 2021.
Art21 is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization; all donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law. Donations to Art21 support the production of Art21's films, education initiatives, digital resources, film archive, and other Art21 projects.
Art21
231 W 29th St Rm 706
New York, NY 10001-5484
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Tsedaye Makonnen's ASTRAL SEA Speaks To The Need for Collective Refuge
Contemporary Ethiopian/American Artist Tsedaye Makonnen was commissioned by MetLiveArts and featured as one of the two living artists in the Africa and Byzantium exhibition. The result is ASTRAL SEA, which speaks to themes of Slavery, Textiles and History
Oyiza Adaba, New York
Contemporary Ethiopian/American Artist Tsedaye Makonnen was commissioned by MetLiveArts and featured as one of the two living artists in the Africa and Byzantium exhibition. The result is ASTRAL SEA, which speaks to themes of Slavery, Textiles and History
Contemporary Artist Tsedaye Makonnen, currently featured as one of the two living artists in the Africa and Byzantium exhibition, has been commissioned by MetLiveArts and supported by Franklin Furnace to produce a new iteration from her performance and textile series Astral Sea to be featured at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
The exhibition explores the cultural interconnections between the African continent and Byzantium from the 4th to the 15th century. The Met has commissioned 7 new works from Tsedaye alongside this new performance piece.
Performers Jasmine Hearn and Adia will be adorned by Astral Sea mirrored textiles created by the artist Tsedaye moving through the exhibit and Petrie Court. Their abstracted gestures will emulate water, land and the cosmos becoming a conduit of those who the work honors.
The performance will highlight themes of healing, protection, hope, resilience, and the power of collective action, drawing connections between the rich histories of Africa and the African diaspora. It will be accompanied by a special live soundscape created by world renowned Sudanese musician Alsarah from Alsarah and the Nubatones.
Astral Sea: The Need for Collective Refuge Performance
Date: February 29th, 2024
Location: The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Africa & Byzantium exhibit and Petrie Court
Performers: Jasmine Hearn, Adia and musician Alsarah
Artist: Tsedaye Makonnen
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