Artist Joshua Obawole Allen invokes elements of installation, sculpture, and ritual, drawing on theory of cell memory and African diasporic tradition to question how we carry, cleanse, and reclaim the histories inscribed in our bodies.
Centering the body in stillness, Allen utilizes a basin of saltwater, beads, shells, and human hair. The water—drawn from the Atlantic Ocean—becomes both mirror and portal, evoking the passage between worlds and the weight of transatlantic inheritance. Through the symbolism of hair, water, and time, Waves: A Meditation becomes a reflection on transformation—where silence is not absence, but an offering.
This performance is presented in the context of Athi-Patra Ruga: Lord, I gotta keep on (movin’), on view through January 18, 2025.
AccessibilityAs this performance encourages folks to move through the gallery, there will not be general seating unless requested for access. Small moveable stools will be available. Located at 26 Wooster Street, the Leslie-Lohman Museum of Art strives to provide a welcoming environment to all visitors. Five external steps lead to our entrance doors: a wheelchair lift is available. All galleries are wheelchair-accessible, and a single-occupancy accessible restroom is located behind the visitor services desk: all restrooms are gender-neutral. Large print didactics are available. For questions or access requests, please email info@leslielohman.org with 1 week advance of your visit.
