Ivory Coast: A new museum for contemporary art
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Loading... - Diana Ankrah
- 14 Jun 2023
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A dense coat of ebony paint adorns a vast canvas, transformed into a vibrant sea of crimson. The artistic abilities of Abobo, located in the Ivory Coast, come alive in captivating displays.
Within the Adama Toungara museum, painters weave tales of their hometown, incorporating its vivid hues and compelling characters to captivate the visitors.
"This artwork serves as a poignant reminder of the historical roots of this place, once a bustling bus station," shared Pehouet Soro, a talented artist.
"Immersed in this scene, we witness the vibrant ambiance of a bus station teeming with bustling traders."
The new museum stands not only at a physical crossroads but also as a symbol of profound significance.
Inaugurated amidst the onset of the pandemic in March, the museum's purpose is to showcase contemporary art representing diverse African cultures.
Spanning over 500 square meters, the museum boasts an extensive collection of sculptures, paintings, and photographs by renowned and emerging artists.
"In the realm of art, there existed no such space to foster the emergence of artists from Abobo," remarked Fodé Sylla, the museum's coordinator.
The exhibition, "Prête moi ton rêve" (Lend me your dream), features the work of a diverse group of contemporary artists from across the African continent.
It serves as a unique opportunity for both locals and visitors to explore the vibrant African art scene.
"The Abobo project was conceived to grant Abobo residents access to culture, allowing them to partake in enriching exhibitions like 'Lend me your dream,' which ranks among the world's finest," Sylla added.
Through Open Days, workshops, concerts, and artist interactions, the museum aspires to attract inquisitive visitors of all ages.
"Here, people from all generations converge and mingle, fostering an environment of collective inspiration," expressed Abishag Voundi, one of the museum's cultural mediators.
"Even adults come, accompanied by their children or sometimes their nannies, and ultimately, everyone finds themselves seated, sketching."
This space serves as a haven for creative expression, inviting talents from all walks of life to draw inspiration from Ivorian and African artists who are gaining recognition beyond the continent.
