Bringing a new perspective to the Justin and Elisabeth Lang Collection of African Art, guest curators Marc Epprecht and Allison Goebel developed a community-based exhibition that challenges the problematic history of colonial-era appropriation, collection and display of African art in Western museums. They invited members of the African and diasporic communities at Queen’s, and in Kingston and the region to select a piece or pieces from the collection and respond in a personal way. These fascinating contributions include short essays, poetry, art, and personal reflections, some of which are captured in video form. The resulting exhibition showcases a rich, fresh engagement with and interpretation of the Lang Collection.

Marc Epprecht is a Professor in the Departments of History and Global Development Studies, and Allison Goebel is an Associate Professor in the School of Environmental Studies, at Queen’s University.

Supported by the Justin and Elisabeth Lang Fund.

View Co-curators Marc Epprecht and Allison Goebel in conversation with Awet T. Weldemichael.

Priscilla Toloo Apronti responds to the Edan Ogboni figures.

Yesutor Gbewonyo recites her poem in response to the Asante combs.

Edward Nkole responds to the Divination Container (Mboko).

Chaka Chikodzi discusses his response to the Lang Collection.