The participants are Fatoumata Diabate, Oumou Diarra, Dickonet, Mariam Niare, Kani Sissoko and Oumou Traore. The project emerged from a two-week workshop in Bamako at the end of 2021, followed by a year of research and support. It was exhibited at the Galería Medina in Bamako in 2023, and Casa África is now hosting the second instalment. The title refers to Nyeleni, a figure from Bamana culture associated with various conceptions of femininity.
Each of the six works has its own theme: in 'La habitación de chicas', Oumou Diarra explores the private spaces of young women in Mali. In 'Tiesiralan', Fatoumata Diabate examines the cultural, familial and gender-related meanings of the broom. In 'Mouna', Mariam Niare takes divination using cowrie shells as her starting point. Kani Sissoko transforms the bùlon, a traditionally male gathering place, into a space for women's voices. Oumou Traore dedicates 'Traces de ma mère' to her mother and, through her, to the women of Mali. In the audio-visual installation 'Trait d'Union', Dickonet brings together testimonies on sexual violence and on breaking the silence.
The exhibition also features the short documentary 'N'yelen mussow' by Fatoumata Tioye Kandioura Coulibaly, in which women from Bamako's art scene discuss their journeys and the role of creativity as a means of expression. The exhibition is curated by Franziska Jenni and Joyce Pennekamp.
The opening will take place on Thursday, 5 November, at 19:30, featuring a guided tour and the performance "Ecos de Nyeleni" by Biselé Nyeleni. On Monday, 9 November, Mariam Niare and Fatoumata Diabate will lead guided tours of the exhibition at 11:00 and 12 noon. Further accompanying events include a meeting with a workshop on Friday 6 November at 17:30, as well as the presentation of a collage.