"Roots and Rituals": Savannah African Art Museum's Rotating Exhibit

Savannah African Art Museum has introduced its new rotating exhibit, "Roots and Rituals: Agriculture and Spirituality in the West African Interior". This exhibition will focus on the agricultural practices and beliefs in Burkina Faso and Mali, highlighting how farmers negotiate with the spirits of the uncultivated terrain through unique social activities. In many African cosmologies, the concept of wilderness is significant as the inverse of culture, defining ideal societal characteristics. The physical realm is considered orderly and controllable, while the wilderness is seen as unpredictable yet a potential source of medicine, sustenance, and wisdom. The exhibition will present a brief overview of these beliefs and practices, showcasing selected artifacts from the Savannah African Art Museum.