GSU’s Art Department is hosting “Africana,” an exhibition of African art and artifacts, through Nov. 1 in the Dunbar Hall Art Gallery. The public will have an opportunity to view art and craftwork collected by faculty members during their travels to Africa. Because all of the pieces originated in Africa, they are representative of historical examples of African Art. Most of the pieces in the exhibition were created in the early to mid-20th century.
The idea for the exhibition originated with Dr. Tsegai Emmanuel, professor and former dean of the College of Business. Examples of sculpture, masks, musical instruments, religious and ceremonial items, textiles, baskets, bowls, and paintings collected by faculty and retired faculty are included in the exhibition.
Among the artwork on exhibit is a Songye Figure, a power figure, or man-made object that is intended to contain or control a supernatural force protecting the possessor and bringing unhappiness to his/her enemies. Powders or special herbs may be rubbed or placed in a receptacle on the body of the figure.
Also included are some excellent examples of African textiles including Adire, Adinkra, and Kente cloth.
Items included in the exhibition come from the collections of Dr. Tsegai Emmanuel, professor and former dean of the College of Business; Tommie Sue Slaughter, assistant professor of Art; Dr. Dorothy Alexander, former head of the College of Basic and Special Studies; Dr. Lucy McIntosh, retired professor emeritus in the Department of Sociology; Dr. Thomas Odom, professor emeritus from the Physics Department; Dr. Gloria Rabon, director of Professional Lab Experiences, Department of Teacher Education; and Dr. Avaine Strong, head of the Physics Department.
Gallery hours are 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. weekdays. Accom-modations are available for large groups and people with special needs.
For more information, call (318) 274-2274.