Socially-engaged African Art: VTS

On 1 April, the Izunokuni Nirayama Area Community Support Centre hosted an "African Art Interactive Appreciation Session (officially Visual Thinking Strategies developed by MOMA)", conducted by the Izunokuni-based AURA no MORI Art House (represented by myself) at the Izunon Cafe (a facility for the elderly). Despite the rain and sudden drop in temperature, about 20 people attended the session, which was expertly moderated by two facilitators, who brought out active discussion among the elderly.

The appreciation session was divided into three parts: an introduction, an appreciation of George Lilanga's 'Shetani' and a discussion on 'Why African Art? As the healing music of the kora played in the room, an exhibition of fabrics from the Kingdom of Kuba and works of art by Senegalese artists depicting butterflies provided a special moment surrounded by African art.

The work on display was "Shetani" (copper foil canvas, 200cm x 105cm) by George Lilanga (1934-2005). Shetani is an ancient African spirit or apparition said to have lived alongside humans. Lilanga, who was born into the Makonde tribe, which has a tradition of ebony carving, expressed the Shetani that appeared in his dreams as unique two-dimensional pop art, and received worldwide acclaim.

At first, the faces of the participants brightened, though they were confused and said they didn't understand, but gradually they began to say that the artwork represented peace and that it was like being in space. (The work can be seen on the home page of this website.)

This event was held with the support of the Arts Council Shizuoka and is part of a social contribution initiative launched by Aura no Mori Art House last year using African art. The aim is to add colour and richness to everyday care activities. The local newspaper Izu Nichinichi Shimbun also published an article of the event. (Photos below courtesy of Izunokuni-based artist Tamiko Hara)