Artist Talk: Penda Diakité in Conversation with Intisar Abioto

Delve deeper into the themes of Bɔkolo: Roots with artist Penda Diakité in conversation with moderator Intisar Abioto, a Portland-based curator, photographer, and interdisciplinary artist whose work explores storytelling, history, and the lived experiences of people of African descent. This intimate artist talk will take place on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 4 p.m. inside Nine Gallery (122 NW 8th Ave, Portland, OR 97209). The event is free, but RSVP is recommended.

Bɔkolo: Roots is an immersive exhibition exploring bicultural identity through Diakité’s lived experience straddling Mali and America. The show features a series of mixed media collage portraits that map a personal and spiritual journey, along with sculptural and floor-based installations inspired by Diakité’s childhood in Mali.

Through collage, sculpture, and sound, Bɔkolo: Roots creates a space where identity is fluid, inherited, and constantly evolving. This artist talk offers a rare opportunity to hear directly from Diakité about the inspirations, concepts, and stories behind her work.