TED Talks Daily The timeless, ancient language of art | Wangechi Mutu
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May 22, 2023 
Wangechi Mutu, a visual artist known for her work that explores women's roles in history, shares her creative journey. She discusses ancient art's influence, like rock carvings found in the Sahel, emphasizing art's role as a universal language. Mutu reflects on her personal challenges and the empowerment found in transforming everyday materials into meaningful creations. She highlights how art can inspire resilience and connection, especially for African women, serving as a much-needed source of hope during tough times.
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Art's Ancient Language
- Art serves as a timeless language connecting humanity across cultures and time.
- Ancient rock art demonstrates the human need to create, record, and represent ourselves.
Nairobi's Influence
- Wangechi Mutu grew up in Nairobi during a time of political repression and censorship in Kenya.
- This experience fueled her desire to express herself freely through art and seek a place where she could do so without fear.
From Sculpture to Collage
- Wangechi Mutu originally studied sculpture but transitioned to collage due to limited resources after graduation.
- Collage became a way for her to continue sculpting in 2D, preserving her artistic vision.