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Village Ki-Yi: A Pan-African Artistic Hub

Experience the vibrant artistic culture of Côte d'Ivoire at Village Ki-Yi, a Pan-African art center in the heart of Abidjan.

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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 workspace for artists from across Africa, fostering cultural exchange and artistic creation.

A brief summary to Village Ki-Yi

Local tips

  • Check the Village Ki-Yi's schedule for upcoming events, workshops, and performances to enhance your visit.
  • Engage with the artists and learn about their creative processes to gain a deeper understanding of Ivorian art.
  • Explore the unique architecture of the village, which blends modern design with traditional African elements.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From central Abidjan, a taxi is a convenient way to reach Village Ki-Yi. Taxis are readily available throughout the city. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey; a typical ride from the Plateau district to Cocody (where Village Ki-Yi is located) costs between 500 and 1500 CFA francs. The journey usually takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic.

  • Public Transport

    You can take a 'gbaka' (minibus) from various points in Abidjan to Cocody. Look for routes heading towards Echangeur de la Riviera 2. Once in Cocody, you may need to take a short taxi ride or walk to Village Ki-Yi. Gbaka fares typically range from 100-200 CFA francs. Be prepared for crowded conditions.

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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 of artists from diverse African backgrounds. Founded in 1985 by Cameroonian artist Werewere Liking, the village—whose name signifies "ultimate knowledge" in her native Bassa language—provides a space for artists to live, work, and collaborate. Within Village Ki-Yi, you'll find dancers, actors, sculptors, painters, musicians, costume designers, and more. The center hosts exhibitions, workshops, and cultural festivals, offering visitors an immersive experience in Ivorian and Pan-African art. The architecture itself blends modern design with traditional African elements, creating a unique and inspiring environment. Village Ki-Yi is not just a place to observe art; it's a place to engage with the artistic process and connect with the spirit of Ivorian culture. Village Ki-Yi plays a vital role in Abidjan's vibrant art scene, which includes numerous galleries and cultural centers. The city has become a hub for contemporary African art, with events like Abidjan Art Week and institutions like the Musée des Cultures Contemporaines Adama Toungara (MuCAT) contributing to its growing reputation.

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