Artists Must Meet

If Not Now, Then When?

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 19:27:57 -0700

I’ve been sitting with this question lately. Letting it echo softly against the walls of my own hesitation:
“If not now, then when?”

Sounds like a whisper from somewhere deep—an invitation, a dare, maybe even a prayer.

There’s this Sufi poem I once read:

What does it evoke in you?
To me, it speaks of trust. Of moving before the path appears.
Of surrendering the idea that we need to have it all figured out before we leap.

I’ve spent years perfecting the pause—waiting for the moment that felt certain, clean, secure. But I’m beginning to understand that certainty might just be a clever disguise for fear.

And maybe... that "step without feet" isn’t a blind risk—it’s an act of radical faith in who we are becoming.

This season of Artists.Must.Meet holds space for that.

For voices that quiver but speak anyway.

For poems scratched in margins.

For presence over polish, connection over perfection.

So here’s your invitation:
Come as you are. Bring a poem, a journal entry, a video, a song—or just your heart. Let’s gather in the spirit of now. Let’s listen, share, and celebrate the power of the moment that cannot wait.

Join us for Artists.Must.Meet – “If Not Now, Then When?”
Saturday, April 19th – 6PM
Location revealed upon registration

With love & light,
Hapi

Et si c’était maintenant… ou jamais ?

Ces derniers temps, je me pose souvent cette question.
Je la laisse résonner doucement contre les murs de mes propres hésitations :
"Si ce n’est pas maintenant, alors quand ?"

Elle sonne comme un murmure venu de loin—une invitation, un défi, peut-être même une prière.

Il y a ce poème soufi que j’ai...Read More

Thoughts: The Artisan and the Artist

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 19:30:17 -0700

In many precolonial African societies, the concept of "artist" as distinct from "craftsman" was largely irrelevant. Creativity was viewed holistically, with a focus on the purpose and spirit behind the creation rather than rigid categorizations. Craftsmanship and artistry were often indistinguishable, as both were deeply imbued with spiritual and communal significance.

The Artisan as a Spiritual Conduit

Craftsmen, such as weavers, sculptors, and blacksmiths, were not merely producers of functional items; they were spiritual conduits.
For example, the Yoruba blacksmiths were believed to be connected to Ogun, the deity of iron and transformation. Their craft was both a technical skill and a sacred duty, merging utility with reverence.
Similarly, beadwork in Southern African cultures was not just decorative; it encoded spiritual and social meanings, often serving as a form of communication in rituals and rites of passage.

Word Art as Craftsmanship

In the African paradigm, those who worked with words—griots, storytellers, poets—were also craftspeople in their own right. Their “tools” were language and memory, their “materials” the wisdom and traditions of their people.
The creation of oral literature required mastery akin to a sculptor shaping wood or a potter molding clay. The focus was not on individual expression but on crafting something enduring, meaningful, and functional for the community.

Art as Collective, Not Individual

The Western idea of the "artist" as an individual genius creating for self-expression contrasts sharply with the African notion of creation as a communal act.
In precolonial African societies, whether a potter, weaver, or poet, the creator’s work was often anonymous, attributed to the lineage or community rather than the individual. The value lay in the work’s...Read More

Éveil à la Biennale de Dakar : Quand l'Art Africain Dialogue avec l'Avenir

Sun, 10 Nov 2024 19:04:14 -0800

La Biennale de Dakar 2024 est bien lancée, et l’atmosphère est teintée de cette énergie particulière qui fait vibrer toute la ville! Sous le thème "The Wake, l’Éveil, Xàll wi", cette édition invite à une réflexion profonde sur le rôle de l’art face aux grands défis de notre époque, entre société, climat et mémoire collective.

En parcourant les œuvres de près de 60 artistes venus d’Afrique et de la diaspora, il est impossible de rester indifférent. Chacune raconte une histoire, suscite une émotion, comme un écho à nos propres interrogations. C’est un voyage entre passé et avenir, un dialogue silencieux qui nous rappelle la puissance de l’art africain : il est vivant, il est audacieux, et il appartient pleinement à son temps.

Pour ceux qui ont l’occasion d’y assister, chaque installation, chaque performance est une fenêtre ouverte sur le monde et, paradoxalement, un miroir sur nous-mêmes. C’est l’une de ces rares occasions de se perdre dans un univers où chaque détail compte et où chaque œuvre, aussi singulière soit-elle, participe à un tout plus grand.

J’ai hâte de voir où cet éveil artistique nous mènera cette année et partager avec vous mes coup de coeur!!

Art and Investment - PART 1

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 19:09:49 -0800

As the 2024 Dakar Biennale kicks off this Thursday, it’s more than just an awe-inspiring cultural spectacle —it’s a moment to reflect on the potential of African art beyond its beauty. There’s a deeper opportunity here: to engage thoughtfully with a thriving art market that seamlessly blends cultural richness with promising horizons. African art isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s an untapped reservoir of financial opportunity, a chance to stake a claim in a burgeoning market that intertwines culture with capital.

African art has long been the heartbeat of the continent—a vivid tapestry of storytelling, identity, and heritage. But today, it’s also a compelling investment vehicle. Global collectors are finally waking up to what insiders have always known: this market is a hidden treasure, ripe for savvy investors ready to see beyond the canvas. And the Biennale, with its rich tapestry of exhibitions and events, is the perfect place to start.

The Dakar Biennale: A Gateway to African Art

Dak’Art isn’t just another art fair—it’s Africa’s premier cultural showcase. Held biennially, it transforms Dakar into a nexus of creativity, drawing artists, collectors, and curators from around the world. Picture the Venice Biennale but with an African twist: more rhythm, more color, and a whole lot more soul. The Biennale isn’t just about appreciating art; it’s about recognizing its value, both cultural and financial.

The last edition saw over 300,000 visitors and injected millions into the local economy. This year promises even more, with a spotlight on...Read More

Unveiling the Creative Tapestry: Reflections on the DWG Art Show 2024

Sun, 28 Apr 2024 09:05:40 -0700

Hey, beautiful souls! Welcome back to my corner of the internet, where we dive deep into the vibrant tapestry of creativity pulsating through Dakar (where I currently am) and beyond. Today, I'm buzzing with excitement to share my reflections on the recent Dakar Women's Group (DWG) Art Show 2024 —a kaleidoscope of artistic brilliance that ignited conversations about the transformative power of art in our journey towards African Renaissance.

A Brilliant Melange of Artistic Brilliance

Imagine this: 44 artists from diverse corners of the continent converging in one space, each presenting their unique perspective and creative genius. From intriguing sculptures to paintings of diverse styles, their artworks formed a rich mosaic of colors, textures, and narratives that resonated deeply. As I navigated through the exhibition hall of IFAN Pavillon B, I couldn't help but marvel at the sheer diversity and depth of talent on display.

At the heart of the DWG Art Show beat a powerful theme: "Hopes and Dreams." It's more than just words—it's a rallying cry for us to dare to dream, to envision a future where our collective aspirations blossom into reality. Through their evocative creations, the artists invited us to embark on a journey of introspection, prompting us to ponder the infinite possibilities that lie within the realm of our imagination.

Harnessing Art for Social Impact

What truly touched me deeply was the...Read More

Travel Memories - Maison des Trois Thés

Sat, 28 Oct 2023 07:03:58 -0700

Did you know that nestled in the heart of Paris, more precisely at Place Monge, there is a place that transcends space and time, transporting you into one of the most authentic Chinese traditions of exceptional tea tasting? Maison des Trois Thés, complete immersion guaranteed! Everything is done with finesse and delicacy, set against a profoundly soothing atmosphere.

I remember the first time a serendipitous winter stroll led me to this truly astonishing establishment. A gentle young lady, relieved me of my coat and seated me by the large bay window that overlooks the square. Immediately, I felt like I was in one of those films where a distortion of spacetime makes you feel disconnected from the world. Looking through the window, I didn't see Paris; I saw an extension of that feeling of serenity one experiences just before tea time.

I come from a country where tea tradition runs deep, and the three services after every meal are a part of Mauritanian poetry; there's no deviation from that. Never.

So, I was delighted to savor the "Puerh Vintage 96" recommended by the establishment's director, who spent some time with me. I will always remember from our conversation that, for him, having traveled the world, "Africa gets into your guts, Latin America captures your heart, and Asia penetrates your spirit."

First sip of that Vinatge Puerh, a taste of wood and wet earth transported me to Boghé, precisely at the moment when the dry and warm climate is about to welcome the rainy season. In my imagination, I saw a serene old man sitting under a tree, gazing at the gentle, moist horizon, the sensation of the first rains of the West...Read More

Celebrating the Transformative Power of Poetry

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 08:34:10 -0700

At the recent Dakar Women's Group Breast Cancer fundraising event, we had the privilege of guiding a poetry "moment", and the experience was truly inspiring... Every year DWG organises a fundraising event to support Breast Cancer Awareness Month to donate to LISCA, ensuring that every contribution directly supports breast cancer awareness and research in Senegal.

The evening began with the noble cause of breast cancer awareness in mind – raising funds for LISCA, an organization dedicated to supporting cancer patients (and much more!) in Senegal.

After an evening filled with heartfelt conversations and generous contributions to LISCA, we transitioned into the poetry workshop. It was a chance for the attendees to explore the world of poetry, learn various techniques, and draw inspiration from the works of talented women poets. Little did we know just how moving this experience would become.

Towards the end of the event, everyone was invited to share the poems they had written during the workshop. The atmosphere was charged with emotion and anticipation. What followed was a powerful outpouring of stories, dreams, and aspirations, all beautifully expressed in their verses. Each poem shared was a glimpse into the unique struggles and journeys of these incredible women.

In those moments, we realized that poetry is not just an art form but a means of healing, empowerment, and inspiration. It transcended boundaries and connected us all, reminding us of the profound impact that words can have. We felt honored to be a part of this beautiful experience!

The Dakar Women Group event was a perfect reminder that when women come together to support a cause and express their creativity, powerful things happen. Learn more about the Dakar Women's Group here : Read More

Saint Louis - Capturing Moments Through Photographs

Fri, 13 Oct 2023 07:55:08 -0700

This beautiful event was organized by a lover of art and photography, founder of the Museums of Photography (Mupho) Amadou Diaw in the beautiful city of Saint Louis. It marked the launch of the Mupho season dedicated to preserving and showcasing the timeless art form of photography. The event not only celebrated the power of photographs to transport us across generations but also paid homage to the photographers themselves, whose passion and talent have immortalized the stories of countless individuals.

A Window into the Past

The solemn air, the attire, the carefully posed stances, and the adornments and talismans—each detail in these photographs painted a vivid picture of an era long gone. They became powerful clues for those who knew how to read and see beyond the surface. As I immersed myself in the collection, I felt a sense of awe and wonder, as if these photographs were portals transporting me back to a different time. They evoked a spirit of nostalgia, urging me to reflect on the stories and experiences of those captured in each frame.

Preserving Memories, Connecting Generations

Photographs have a unique ability to bridge gaps in time and connect us with our collective past. They act as portals to the memories and experiences of our ancestors, reminding us of our shared humanity and the cyclical nature of life. By preserving these images and opening them up for exploration, Mupho and similar institutions serve as guardians of our heritage, ensuring that the stories and moments captured within these photographs continue to inspire and inform future generations.

After that weekend in Saint Louis, I left carrying with me a renewed appreciation for the power of photography to transcend time and capture the essence of the human experience. The images I encountered at this extraordinary gathering served as...Read More

Reveries - Join us for an Intimate Spoken Word and Show-and-Tell Event

Tue, 13 Jun 2023 05:40:54 -0700

In the enchanting world of artistic expression, there are moments when creativity intertwines with introspection, giving birth to captivating reveries. At Artists.Must.Meet, we believe in the power of connecting artists and enthusiasts, and we are thrilled to announce our upcoming event that celebrates the theme of "Reveries." Join us for an intimate evening filled with spoken word performances, show-and-tell presentations, and book and poetry readings that will transport you to the realms of dreams and contemplation.

"Reveries" invites you to delve into the depths of your imagination and embrace the ethereal nature of daydreams. Prepare to be mesmerized as talented poets, writers, and artists take the stage to share their works inspired by reveries—those magical moments of contemplation, fantasies, and personal reflections.

In addition to the spoken word performances, "Reveries" features a unique show-and-tell segment, where attendees are encouraged to bring objects, books, or artworks that hold a special place in their own reverie-filled journeys. Share the significance of your chosen item and the stories it whispers to your soul.

"Reveries" also presents a wonderful opportunity to discover new literary gems. Immerse yourself in book and poetry readings, whether it's fiction, memoir, or poetry. Everyon is welcome to share those gems!Come, share your stories, connect with kindred spirits, and let the power of art guide you into a realm of imagination and self-reflection.

Unlock the beauty of reveries—join us at "Reveries" and let the magic unfold!

Nouakchott, amm is coming! 'Embrace New Beginnings' A Spoken Word Showcase and Show-and-Tell

Tue, 13 Jun 2023 05:29:15 -0700

In a world brimming with untold stories and undiscovered talents, we yearn for a platform to share our experiences and embark on new beginnings. Prepare to immerse yourself in a captivating event that combines the power of spoken word and the joy of show-and-tell. Join us as we celebrate the art of expression and the transformative journey of starting afresh.

This is more than just a spoken word event; it's a space for poets, storytellers, and artists to ignite their creativity and captivate the audience with their words. Step into an atmosphere charged with emotions and lyrical narratives that paint vivid pictures and stir the soul. Let the power of spoken word transport you to new realms of introspection and inspiration.

In addition to the captivating spoken word performances, "New Beginnings" encourages participants to take part in a unique show-and-tell experience. Bring an object, a piece of artwork, or any tangible representation that symbolizes your personal journey of renewal and share its significance with others. Through this interactive segment, we celebrate the diverse stories and experiences that shape our individual paths of growth.

Connect with fellow artists, writers, and enthusiasts who share a passion for self-expression and personal growth. Engage in conversations that delve into the transformative power of creativity and explore new perspectives on life. Forge meaningful connections and find inspiration in the...Read More