Africa’s rich cultural heritage takes centre stage as Professor Wole Soyinka’s 90th birthday
provides an opportunity to launch a groundbreaking creative exhibition, African
I-D-E-N-T-I-T-Y (AI).” This visionary project, curated under the Vision of the Child (VoTC)
umbrella, marks a milestone in promoting creativity, education, and social transformation
across the continent.
Africa I.D.E.N.T.I.T.Y is one of the projects conceived to celebrate the 15th edition of the annual
Wole Soyinka International Cultural Exchange (WSICE) and as well mark the 90th birthday
anniversary celebration of Soyinka (WS90) as a global cultural icon and humanist.
Foluke Michael, the Cofounder of VoTC and Project Director of WS90/WSICE 15th edition,
stated that The African I-D-E-N-T-I-T-Y initiative is conceived from the themes of the 2013 and
2014 editions of VoTC: “Good Governance and Democracy in Nigeria” and “One Thousand and
One Faces of Corruption”. With a focus on promoting good governance and democracy amidst
the challenges of corruption, AI encapsulates the essence of Africa through the principles of
Diversity, Economic Development, Nationhood, Trade, Innovation, Talent, and Youthfulness.
Through a captivating fusion of art, literature, music, fashion, and food, “African
I-D-E-N-T-I-T-Y” aims to redefine Africa’s narrative, showcasing its resilience and progress.
From the vibrant streets of Lagos to the artistic city of Florence, Italy, where the project
originated in 2002 and culminated in a grand exhibition in London, this immersive experience
invites audiences on a transformative journey through Africa’s cultural labyrinth.
Nine award-winning VoTC alumni, under the mentorship of renowned artists Tola Wewe, Nike
Okundaye, and Segun Almaroof, will lead the project, infusing their unique perspectives and
talents into each masterpiece. With guidance from Prof. Soyinka, assisted by cultural advocate
Jahman Anikulapo, these participants will create masterpieces that reflect Africa’s cultural
richness and culture of integrity while addressing critical narratives of diversity, economic
development, innovation, and youthfulness. The live painting event will be held in Florence
from June 7 to 11 and in Lagos in July 2024.
Dr. Teju Kareem, Executive Producer of the WSICE, stated that the WSICE 15th edition and
WS90 celebration will also feature a unique “Harmony and Verses: A Life in Full” event at the
Africa Centre in London, scheduled from July 19 to 29. This event promises 10 days of inspiration and reflection, celebrating Prof. Soyinka’s enduring legacy and contributions to
African culture and society.
Beyond celebrating Prof. Soyinka’s birthday, “African I-D-E-N-T-I-T-Y” aims to launch a virtual exhibition and Solution17 Creative Academy, nurturing exceptional talents and creativity
towards Africa’s growth, development, and prosperity.
{For more information, please contact Foluke Michael at folukemi@wolesoyinkaat90.life or +2348096108715, website: www.wolesoyinkaat90.life
