Thursday 7 th of September – 6.30 pm in Art@Africa Gallery – V&A Waterfront

Title: The Concept of Ashay: Exploring the Universal Force and Living Energy

Throughout ancient civilizations and ancient practices, such as the Vedic tradition and Chinese Qi energy, different cultures have embraced the concept of a universal force that imbues all beings, both animate and inanimate, with living energy. Among these cultures, the Yoruba and Swahili traditions refer to this force as "Ashay." This body of works delves into the significance of Ashay . I touch upon the symbolic representation of the earth as a female or mother, the cyclical nature of seasons, and the flower symbolism's connection to the ever-continuation of life. Ultimately, the works aim to show how humanity is connected to a larger natural world teeming with universal energy. Ashay (Pronounced A-shay) : The Universal Force in Yoruba and Swahili Traditions Ashay, a Yoruba and Swahili term, represents the concept of a universal force. It signifies the living energy present in all things, both animate and inanimate. It serves as the connecting thread that binds humanity and the natural world together. This concept is deeply rooted in the belief that every action, thought, and breath is fuelled by Ashay, which is considered vital in the workings of the universe.