Dwell; Aso Ebi 2017

Njideka Akunyili Crosby painted "Dwell; Aso Ebi", in no particular date. The patterns and photographs woven into this scene speak of cultural memory. The 'aso ebi,' the matching fabric worn by family members at Nigerian celebrations, is not merely decorative. These patterns, repeated across generations, act as a visual echo of cultural continuity. Consider how such fabrics—once simple markers of unity—become imbued with the weight of history and identity. Like the recurring motifs in Renaissance painting, these fabrics resurface, each time carrying the echoes of past celebrations and familial bonds. These aren't just patterns; they're a form of visual language. In this intimate setting, we see how personal and collective histories intertwine, creating a layered narrative of identity, displacement, and belonging. It’s as if the very walls of the space whisper stories of connection and heritage.