TED Talks Daily Fun, fierce and fantastical African art | Wanuri Kahiu
Sep 5, 2022
Wanuri Kahiu, a TED Fellow and acclaimed filmmaker, challenges conventional narratives about Africa by introducing AfroBubbleGum art, which celebrates joy and creativity. She advocates for vibrant, lighthearted storytelling that reflects life’s full spectrum rather than focusing solely on serious issues. Kahiu emphasizes the importance of artistic expressions that showcase cultural richness and identity, aiming to reshape perceptions of Africa and highlight its artistic vibrancy.
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Sci-Fi Origins
- Wanuri Kahiu's mother, a pediatrician, told her imaginative stories blending science and fiction.
- One story claimed eating too much salt causes blood to shoot out of your head, which she called high blood pressure.
Challenging Perceptions
- Kahiu's sci-fi writing was deemed "un-African," prompting her to question the definition of "African."
- She highlights the perception of Africa as a serious place reserved for serious topics.
AfroBubbleGum
- Kahiu's work, focusing on lighthearted themes like B-pop bands and robots, is often questioned for its lack of seriousness.
- She argues for the validity of fun, fierce, and frivolous art, introducing the concept of "AfroBubbleGum."