(Header Featured Artist of the Month: Oyindamola AbdulKadir)

‘The names we are called do not matter as much as the names we answer to’ – Yoruba proverb

A recurring theme in the activities we have organised to reflect on the legacy of the 1884–1885 Berlin Conference is the question of identity. The modern African nation-state, shaped by imposed borders that gathered hundreds of ethnic groups into single entities, continues to carry the deep social and cultural consequences of that history. Even a simple question such as “Where are you from?” becomes layered with political, economic, and cultural meaning.

As we continue to unpack the implications of the Berlin Conference and look beyond it, it becomes clear that the work of reimagining African institutions inherited from colonial powers must go hand in hand with personal re-education. We will know this work is taking root when we begin to question the names we call ourselves and recognise the discomfort that comes with renegotiating our sense of who we are.

These conversations have been at the heart of several of our recent events. The Fatherland Group continues to explore them through regular screenings of its powerful new documentary at The Africa Centre, each one sparking reflection, debate, and often a renewed sense of purpose. 

An integral part of identity is how we choose to present ourselves physically. It remains deeply troubling to see how widespread skin-bleaching products still are across many African countries. This drive to lighten our complexions is a painful legacy of colonialism and of whiteness being imposed as the standard of beauty. The arts have a vital role to play in helping to unlearn these ideas and to raise awareness of both the physical and psychological impact of such practices.

Yet, amidst this, there is so much beauty to celebrate. Recently, we hosted A WÀ ǸBẸ̀, a stunning exhibition by Orry Shenjobi that reflected on shared memories and the sensory echoes of celebration in shaping identity.

On a recent trip to Nigeria, I met the talented artist Oyindamola Abdulkadir, whose work beautifully weaves heritage into contemporary life. Her upcoming series, Èwà (Beauty) 2025, captures this perfectly. As our featured artist of the month, she reminds us that beauty (our èwà) is deeply rooted in heritage and pride.

Orry and Oyindamola both show us that we can choose to define ourselves differently, drawing strength from our past while embracing the vibrancy of our present and future.

We are pleased to announce that the long-awaited Beyond Berlin conference will now be held on the 12^th and 13^th of December at SOAS University of London. Details in the flier below.