Exploring how Black artists, through various forms of visual art, use their work as a means of expressing and examining their identities, experiences and perspectives
Meet Chinua Achebe; a literary giant whose words have resonated with millions around the world, leaving an enduring mark on literature and culture!
Chinua Achebe
Born in Ogidi, Nigeria in 1930, Chinua Achebe grew up under the shadow of colonialism. His early life was shaped by his Igbo heritage; something that would weave its way into his work.
Things Fall Apart
While attending the University of Ibadan, Achebe developed a passion for storytelling and in 1958 he published his groundbreaking masterpiece Things Fall Apart. More than just a novel, this cultural treasure trove portrays the complexity of African societies before and during colonialism. The characters provided a much-needed voice to the African experience, something that had long been marginalised in the world of literature. He went on to produce a series of novels, essays and short stories exploring themes including identity and tradition.
Beyond the Page
Achebe was a visionary who believed in the power of education, and how the written word can transform societies and change the course of history. He was an advocate for African education and literature, believing that African writers should tell their own stories with their own narratives.
Legacy
The influence of Achebe's work is reflected in contemporary African literature, as well as in the global recognition of African voices. His contributions to literature earned him numerous awards, including the Man Booker International Prize and the Dorothy and Lillian Gish Prize.
Chinua Achebe's life and legacy are a testament to the power of literature to transcend borders, challenge norms, and bring about change.