Bark cloth with black lines and shapes that represent nature. — Mbuti artist, Democratic Republic of Congo, Barkcloth painting, mid-20th century, fibers, pigment, The Mary Ruth Weisel Endowment for Africa, Oceania, and the Americas and gift of Robert T. Coffland in memory of Mary Hunt Kahlenberg L2018.163.21 Photo: Robert Coffland, Santa Fe

Improvisational Concert

This improvisational concert takes its inspiration from the exhibition “In Dialogue with the Forest: Barkcloth Paintings from Congo.” Paintings made by Mbuti women on thin pieces of barkcloth evoke the natural environment of the Congolese rainforest in which they live. Yet these visual compositions also refer to the language of Mbuti music. Over a dozen barkcloth paintings form the visual backdrop of a concert featuring vocalists and percussionists.

Sarah Greer is a vocalist known for her improvisational performances and multi-disciplinary projects. Mankwe Ndosi is a vocalist and improviser known for her unique blend of South and East African music. From Ghana, Fatawu Sayibu is a drummer and the founder and choreographer of Tiyumba Dance Company. Davu Seru is a drummer and composer. Curated by Joe Horton, Mia artist-in-residence.

Presented by the African Art Affinity Group

_{Mbuti artist, Democratic Republic of Congo, Barkcloth painting, mid-20th century, fibers, pigment, The Mary Ruth Weisel Endowment for Africa, Oceania, and the Americas and gift of Robert T. Coffland in memory of Mary Hunt Kahlenberg L2018.163.21
Photo: Robert Coffland, Santa Fe}