“Our aim, with this exhibition, is to present a vision of Africa as a diverse and rich continent, inhabited by various cultural groups that are true reservoirs of knowledge, born from a direct experience of observing and transforming nature. We want to speak of an Africa detached from the colonial trauma, a continent where artisans abound, whose craftsmanship rivals that of the great masters of haute couture. Viewing these textiles allows us to reach an initial conclusion: we have much to learn from these artists, both in the creation of these works and in the techniques of preserving them”, state the curators.
The exhibition is divided into seven rooms: Animal Geometry, Plant Blue, Language Technology, the Bead Route, Opacity and Transparency, the Dance of Shapes and Earth Paints.
© Levi Fanan et Beto Assem / Pinacoteca de São Paulo
The Art of Beading by Igénie Nomba and Robert Ndé
Igénie Nomba and Robert Ndé, bead artisans from the Jean-Félicien Gacha Foundation, were invited to present their formation and expertise during the opening of the exhibition ‘Between the head and the earth: traditional African textile art’ at the Pinacoteca of São Paulo, Brazil, on August 31.
‘An artisan, to succeed, must be humble and patient’ – Robert Ndé.
This conference provided an opportunity for the artisans to share their expertise in embroidery with glass beads and to emphasize the importance of passing on this craft. Igénie and Robert also highlighted the challenges of preserving these traditional techniques while discussing solutions to ensure their continuity.
© Beto Assem / Pinacoteca de São Paulo
📅 : from August 31, 2024, to February 2, 2025
📍 : Pinacoteca of São Paulo, Brazil