Salon Africana Celebrates FESTAC ‘77 Cultural Legacy

Ugo Aliogo

The opening preview of Salon Africana’s much-anticipated exhibition, ‘The Fabric of Courage’, was held at the historic Old Printing Press on Broad Street, Lagos Island recently, as an extraordinary celebration of the cultural legacy and enduring significance of FESTAC ‘77.

The event, which was conceived and curated by Grammy-nominated jazz vocalist, writer, and scholar, Somi Kakoma, is the salon-styled exhibition which presents a captivating array of photographs capturing the essence of FESTAC ‘77.

The collection includes remarkable large-scale images by acclaimed American photographer, Marilyn Nance, who made her first return to Nigeria since 1977, for the opening preview of the exhibition.

It hinted that Nance did not only participate in FESTAC ‘77 but also meticulously documented the journey of the American delegation to the festival.

The exhibition also showcased Tam Fiofori’s iconic work, ‘The Crowd at FESTAC ‘77’, which captures the atmosphere of the opening ceremony, along with photographs sourced from the archive of the Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilization.

The statement remarked that exhibition features a video installation by Kakoma and a sound installation curated by Chimurenga, further enhancing the immersive multidisciplinary experience.

Another highlight of the opening night was a riveting performance by Somi and her international band, culminating in a moving homage to the late South African icon, Miriam Makeba, who was one of the remarkable rosters of great artists such as Stevie Wonder, King Sunny Ade, James Brown, and others who graced the FESTAC stage in 1977.

A thought-provoking panel session featuring luminaries such as Culture Curator, Producer and Communicator, Jahman Anikulapo; and Executive Programme Director of the Culture Advocates Caucus; Professor Duro Oni, Fellow of the Nigerian Academy of Letters and retired Professor of Theatre Arts at the University of Lagos; Marilyn Nance, and Director-General of the Centre For Black and African Arts and Entertainment, Aisha Augie, underscored the importance of revitalising the archives of FESTAC ‘77 for historical relevance.

The discussion centred on the imperative to make these archives more accessible, ensuring that future generations can appreciate the cultural significance of the festival.

Also present were representatives of the government, Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor, Tourism, Arts and Culture, Idris Aregbe; Special Assistant to the President on Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Ayo Adeagbo, and other notable guests from the Lagos creative community and society. Their presence added an invaluable dimension to the event, enriching the dialogue and deepening the appreciation of FESTAC’s profound cultural legacy.