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The Arts Intel Report

Africa Fashion

Aso Lànkí, Kí Ató Ki Ènìyàn (“We Greet Dress Before We Greet Its Wearer”) Collection, 2021.

June 23 – Oct 22, 2023
200 Eastern Pkwy, Brooklyn, NY 11238, USA

The 1950s through the 1990s were important decades in Africa. Many countries were claiming independence, and the euphoria of decolonization sparked social reordering across the continent. Writers, artists, and musicians joined the Mbari Club; Fela Kuti pioneered the Afrobeat; and Indigenous textiles were embraced once again, a statement that was as political as it was aesthetic. This exhibition explores the birth of contemporary African fashion. Garments, photographs, sketches, films, and catwalk footage tell an important story. And the exhibition gift shop is a treat in itself. The museum has partnered with Alára, the prestigious luxury concept-shop from Lagos. —Elena Clavarino

Photo: © Kadara Enyeasi