States of Becoming

States of Becoming examines the dynamic forces of relocation, resettlement, and assimilation that shape the artistic practices of a group of 17 contemporary African artists who have lived and worked in the United States. The concept for the exhibition evolved out of curator Fitsum Shebeshe’s lived experience following his 2016 move from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia to Baltimore, and his subsequent knowledge of the weight of cultural assimilation. “States of Becoming was born out of my own process of relocating to the United States in 2016,” Shebeshe said. “This exhibition allows for further understanding of not only my own experiences, but also those of the artists. By analyzing both the unique aspects and commonalities together with The Africa Center’s global and local communities, we can reimagine together how we think about how identity is continually shaped and reshaped.”

Artists: Gabriel C. Amadi-Emina, Kearra Amaya Gopee, Kibrom Araya, Nadia Ayari, Vamba Bility, Elshafei Dafalla, Masimba Hwati, Chido Johnson, Miatta Kawinzi, Dora King, Helina Metaferia, Nontsikelelo Mutiti, Yvonne Osei, Kern Samuel, Amare Selfu, Tariku Shiferaw, and Yacine Tilala Fall.

States of Becoming
October 14, 2022—April 2, 2023

The Africa Center
The Africa Center is located on Museum Mile at the intersection of 110th Street and Fifth Avenue.
Visiting hours: Thursday to Sunday, 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM

www.theafricacenter.org