The Nymphs and Naga's Returned Home

The way in which Africa is exoticised and romanticised is a discussion those within the diaspora tend to keep on the hush. We, the Afro-politicians of this generation have enough of our dirty laundry sprawled across the media’s pristine cosmopolitan floor. Yet, with the resurgence of African inspired textiles, prints and fashion, the culture is being exploited and showcased at new heights. Needless to say, all the politics and discourse tend to tip-toe out the window when plane tickets and an itinerary are placed in your hands. This gypsy-vagabond-wayfarer nymph is no exception to her own rule. I was given an offer I surely could not refuse. An opportunity to discourse on the diaspora and its connection to my Americanness as well as perform while on the continent. All that to say, “I’m goin to Africa Momma.” That was my mantra for the week leading up to the trip to Malabo, a small island off the coast of Equatorial Guinea in West Africa. I was having that Marcus Garvey kinda going home anticipation. That Sankofa is going to have a completely different meaning in my life kinda feeling. I was ready… ready to return home!  Yet, it was one of those trips that  I am still processing and engaging with. Over the next few weeks I will share images, poetry, videos and  insight as to what my first excursion to Africa was all about! So pack lightly, this midnight train is heading to the motherland!!

This picture is of Mara Hruby and myself doing an ocean ritual under the moon on the beach!!

See Trae’s Closet interview here.