Afropolitanism is simply defined as citizens of the world (cosmopolitans) with African roots. It is constructed from the name “Africa” and Greek word(s) “politis” (citizen) or better still the word “kosmopolites” (‘citizen of the world’). Contrary to popular opinion, the term Afropolitanism originated in South Africa coined by Achille Mbembe and popularised by writer Taiye Selasi. Selasi penned an essay, Bye-Bye Babar (2005) in which she defined Afropolitans as ‘Africans of the world’ identifying multiple local peoples of African descent worldwide. Selasi, in her Ted Talk, also introduced the newest generation of African emigrants, saying “Were you to ask any of these beautiful, brown-skinned people that basic question – ‘where are you from?’ – you’d get no single answer from a single smiling dancer.” We are Afropolitans: not citizens, but Africans of the world!
Wow!! It’s been quite some time typing in my blog as i have been busy with my PhD research project, typing my thesis, multiple artistic experiences, etc. Finally a quick breather, the newspaper front page photo speaks for itself!! Am I dreaming??? I won’t stay long typing as i need to go to uni as my PhD submission draws very close!!
So here we are in Leeds during this year of lockdown or as others putting a positive spin on it call it, artist retreat!! To date in my practice as research project looking at the influence of Yoruba (Edekiri) culture on artistic (afropolitan) practices in Leeds, i have:
-Started and stopped creating a mud Ori head sculpture (work in progress) –Started bits of installation ideas for a scheduled exhibition at East St arts (cancelled) -lost access to own studio, university 3d studio and music studio
However;
I created a lock down exhibition series of small marquettes as shown above using masking tape, found confectionery packaging, discarded perfume bottles, etc.
I have also recorded close to 30 pieces of music in logic pro x informed by the various aspects of Yoruba culture eg the concept of Ori, Iwa Pele and honouring ancestors. This also includes creating songs for the Nomad Woman musical, depicting Osun the goddess of love, Ori Olokun, Ogun, etc as they journey alongside Yoruba peoples I feel in disguise within the spiritual practices we often find ourselves involved in at church, etc!!
I have also created new lyrics, poetry and narrations and in the middle of completing my next book in response to the BLM crisis.
I have created music videos documenting the process of creating the sculptures.
i have written up two case study drafts, a 10,000 word document on Afropolitanism, collated a Yoruba world migration history timeline (and still working on), a host of reflexive writings including this blog, posted on Instagram and twitter.
Performed finally on Zoom events and aim to resurrect my radio show.
etc, etc, etc……………
I did get a 2 week umbrella of access (socially distanced, on my own with mask, following the COVID protocol) to the 3d studio at university where I’d started to create two large sculptures based on the crown Ori mini maquettes until my card was blocked from entry into the studio leading to a mini break down on campus!! I really do not understand why I am not allowed continuous access!!! Nothing makes sense, the lock down conditions say University remains open and we have confirmation from the VC that we can come into uni!!! 😦
Large Hatshepsut Ori Crown- Oct work begun, in progress, but… 😦
Anyway, given up hope on that now and will focus on more writing, chapter outlines, case studies of carnival queen and carnival messiah.
I’ll continue to attend online seminars, lectures, q&a and i gave a presentation about my research at the last research cafe!! yay!!
oh wow, Lawrence just brought me some yummy food so break time!! 🙂
Afropolitan is a term constructed from the name Africa and the ancient Greek word πολίτης, meaning ‘citizen’. It is an attempt at redefining African phenomena by placing emphasis on ordinary citizens’ experiences in Africa. Afropolitanism is similar to the older Panafricanism ideology. Wikipedia
Melodies, plural of melody
Melody A melody, also tune, voice or line, is a linear succession of musical tones that the listener perceives as a single entity. In its most literal sense, a melody is a combination of pitch and rhythm, while more figuratively, the term can include successions of other musical elements such as tonal color. Wikipedia
“I believe that our daily food choices are some of the most impactful choices we make when it comes to ethical and sustainable living.” Sasha Swerdloff’s blog showcases fresh, seasonal recipes and gorgeous food photography.
LARA ROSE 