Ghanaian artist Ibrahim Mahama transformed London’s Barbican Centre from grey to vibrant pink using fabric from northern Ghana. Inspired by the dull weather, he wanted to add color as a contrast.
With the help of 1,000 people, he hand-stitched 2,000 square meters of cotton, decorating it with traditional Ghanaian smocks.
Mahama believes art is crucial for societal evolution, emphasizing community involvement in his projects. His installations explore collective labor and the memories held within textiles.
The exhibit, “Purple Hibiscus,” showcases the cultural significance of Ghanaian batakari tunics. These garments, imbued with sweat and history, symbolize resilience and tradition.
Mahama’s art celebrates decay as a form of renewal, and the process of creation is as important as the final product.
Bringing this massive artwork to London was a proud achievement for Mahama, bridging historical labor forms with modern artistry.
The colorful display, billowing in the wind, evokes a sense of dance and spectacle against the Barbican’s brutalist architecture.
Just as the batakari dances in the wind, “Purple Hibiscus” performs its own unique dance, captivating viewers with its beauty and cultural richness.
(Adapted from BBC News)
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-68846770