Background

Village Ki-Yi: A Pan-African Artistic Hub

Discover Village Ki-Yi in Abidjan: a vibrant art center fostering Pan-African collaboration and celebrating cultural diversity through artistic expression.

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Village Ki-Yi is a cooperative art center in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, founded in 1985 by Cameroonian artist Werewere Liking. It serves as a home and workshop for artists from across Africa, fostering cultural exchange and artistic innovation.

A brief summary to Village Ki-Yi

Local tips

  • Check the schedule for upcoming performances, exhibitions, and cultural events to enhance your visit.
  • Engage with the artists and learn about their creative processes and cultural backgrounds.
  • Consider participating in a workshop to gain hands-on experience in a particular art form.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From the Plateau district, a taxi to Village Ki-Yi will take approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. A typical fare should be around 3,000-5,000 XOF. Taxis are readily available throughout Abidjan.

  • Public Transport

    From Gare Sud in Plateau, take bus line 06 towards Cocody. Alight at Echangeur de la Riviera 2. From there, Village Ki-Yi is a short walk away. The bus fare is 200 XOF.

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Discover more about Village Ki-Yi

Village Ki-Yi, located in the Cocody neighborhood of Abidjan, is more than just an art center; it's a living, breathing community where artists from diverse African backgrounds converge to create, collaborate, and celebrate their shared heritage. Founded in 1985 by Cameroonian artist Werewere Liking, the Village, whose name signifies "ultimate knowledge" in the Bassa language, has become a symbol of Pan-Africanism in the arts. Home to around fifty resident artists, Village Ki-Yi encompasses a wide range of disciplines, including dance, theater, puppetry, sculpture, painting, music, and costume design. Visitors can witness the creative process firsthand, explore the artists' studios, and engage in conversations about their work. The Village regularly hosts exhibitions, performances, and cultural events that showcase the talents of its residents and promote intercultural dialogue. The architecture of Village Ki-Yi blends modern design with traditional African elements, creating a unique and inspiring environment. The center also offers workshops and training programs in various artistic fields, providing opportunities for aspiring artists to develop their skills and connect with established professionals. Village Ki-Yi is not just a place to observe art; it's a place to participate, learn, and be immersed in the vibrant culture of the African continent.

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