G.A.S. Foundation’s archivist Naima Hassan led a hybrid reading group session, uniting Art and Culture Study Group members, G.A.S. residents, alumni, and industry stakeholders. Together, they delved into early writings on restitution through the prism of FESTAC’77 and FESMAN.

Naima Hassan and Billy Fowo, during their shared residency at G.A.S. Foundation, inventoried scattered archives and ephemera linked to these pivotal Pan-African festivals. In his segment, Billy Fowo explored the significance of multilingualism and translation in bridging the gaps within performance-based archives, offering profound insights into cultural connections.

This November, G.A.S. Lagos welcomes Elsa James, an established Essex-based artist, filmmaker, researcher, and activist for a month-long residency in Lagos. She aims to confront facets of her African heritage while addressing the profoundness of histories fractured by the transatlantic slave trade of the 17th and 18th centuries. Through introspection and forging connections, Elsa endeavors to create a fresh body of work inspired by her discoveries

The Barnes Foundation, established in 1922, by Albert C. Barnes, is an art collection and educational institution whose mission is to promote the advancement of education and the appreciation of the fine arts and horticulture. Dr. Barnes, believed that art had the power to improve minds and transform lives. In line with The Barnes' value of ongoing learning  and career advancement, they are supporting a residency for TK Smith; their Curator of African Diasporic Art