Exhibition: ADANSINI: Reimagining Adansi Architecture through Afrofuturist Visions
Exhibition on view:
November 24 – December 7, 2023
Artist:
Clifford Bright-Abu
Curated by:
Nuna Adisenu-Doe
Location:
Buro
Accra
Ghana
Adwo by Clifford Bright-Abu – ADANSINI: Reimagining Adansi Architecture through Afrofuturist Visions is at Buro in Accra, Ghana
ADANSINI: Reimagining Adansi Architecture through Afrofuturist Visions is Clifford Bright-Abu's solo exhibition at Buro in Accra, Ghana. The exhibition is curated by Nuna Adisenu-Doe, and promises a captivating journey into the rich architectural history of the Adansi people.
“[Clifford Bright-Abu’s] digital models transcend the boundaries of time, offering futuristic iterations of these structures while preserving their cultural, spiritual, and collective essence. This blend of technology and tradition is the cornerstone of his work, illustrating the dynamic nature of the Adansi architectural legacy.”
The artist explores a fusion of the historical archives of West African and North African kingdoms and his futuristic vision to create imaginative reinterpretations Adansi's pre-colonial architectural marvels. Clifford Bright-Abu draws inspiration from their exceptional building techniques, crafting extraordinary structures that exuded a unique blend of aesthetics and function.
Echoes of tiebele by Clifford Bright-Abu – ADANSINI: Reimagining Adansi Architecture through Afrofuturist Visions is at Buro in Accra, Ghana
“By reimagining Adansi architecture through an Afrofuturist lens, he transports these ancient buildings into the realm of the future. He envisions structures that do not only pay homage to the past but also speculate on what they might become in a world where culture, technology, and spirituality coalesce in innovative ways.”
The Adansi people were among the pioneering Akan states to establish a kingdom during the 15th century, and shaped the architectural landscape of the Ashanti Kingdom. Clifford Bright-Abu pays homage to his ancestors, referred as “royal builders,” with ADANSINI. The title of the exhibition translates to “Builders” while inviting viewers to witness the reimagining of these architectural wonders within the contemporary context of Kumasi, Ghana.
“His reinterpretations of these forsaken historical architectural wonders often find themselves in unconventional environments that deviate from the usual geographical context of Kumasi, which is both landlocked and tropical. In doing so, he challenges the notion of being bound by geographical constraints, expanding the possibilities of where these reimagined structures might now thrive, be it within pink deserts, alongside turquoise rivers, and beyond.”
ADANSINI: Reimagining Adansi Architecture through Afrofuturist Visions by Clifford Bright-Abu is at Buro in Accra, Ghana
Clifford Bright-Abu is a Ghanaian contemporary artist who lives and works in Accra. His artistic practice of reimagined digital renditions of ancient African architecture wonders, buildings and culture of yesteryears stems from his background in Building Technology which equips him with the skills and knowledge to navigate the intricate world of local architecture and buildings, whether residential, royal palaces, sacred shrines, or humble barns.
“[Clifford Bright-Abu’s] work also highlights lost African culture and explores their position in an evolving world with a look to be inter-generational. Works of this form express the paradigms through which African heritage can maintain its cultural difference while making organic advances on ill- fitting structures.”
Visit ADANSINI: Reimagining Adansi Architecture through Afrofuturist Visions in Accra, Ghana through December 7, 2023 and let us know your thoughts!
ADANSINI: Reimagining Adansi Architecture through Afrofuturist Visions by Clifford Bright-Abu is at Buro in Accra, Ghana
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