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November 1 2005, Tuesday,
10am-6pm (continues until November 8 2005, Tuesday, 10am-6pm)
We are grateful
for a press release, received from The Royal College of Art. It concerns
one of the college’s latest shows, called “Oriki” and which focuses on
contemporary African art. The release states, ‘Oriki is an exhibition
and celebration of contemporary African art and culture through the work
of Royal College of Art students both past and present. It is an
exploration of artists and designers who work in the cross-culture
between Africa and the West - a product of their roots, education and
lineage. It is the call and response of these cultures and the diversity
of this “lineage” that drives, stimulates and influences their work.’
So, what is “Oriki”? Well, the release gives us an answer, ‘In Yoruba
dialect the Oriki is a praise song that immortalises artists and
reflects the contemporary recognition they receive. This tribute is an
evocative portrait of the artist based on the influence of achievements,
culture, background, lineage and roots. All of the participating artists
and designers provide refreshing reflections on how to work in the mix
of western and African thought and symbolism, not to split the ground,
but to introduce new understandings and cultural references. The
diversity of work on display reflects the multiculturalism,
transformation of visual representation and deconstruction of
stereotypes.’
The release then goes
on to discuss some of the exhibition’s dozen or so participating artists and
designers, two of which focus on Ghana, ‘Jessica Antwi-Boasiako’s short film
searches for British traces still evident in Ghanaian culture through the visual
communication of sign writers. Kwayie Kuffour’s photography explores Ghanaian
architecture and its assimilation with western culture, wealth and class. Zoey
Auburn’s exquisite jewellery uses colourful fine silk and metallic threads that
explore and combine natural forms from Africa and the UK.’ Sounds educational,
and well worth going to.
MENU A: Free
B: 9, 10, 52 or 360
L: Royal College of Art, Kensington Gore, London, SW7
T: South Kensington (Circle, District and Piccadilly lines)
W: http://www.rca.ac.uk/
X:
http://www.howtoenjoy.co.uk/countries/africa.htm
http://www.howtoenjoy.info/interests/art.htm
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