Decoding Africa: In Search of a New Algorithm (2024) Tamla Parrish-Bah

The Routing Diaspora Histories project encouraged us to explore Africa's rich and abundant history beyond the simple chronicling of events, conquests, and the rise and fall of civilisations and empires.

Looking for a source that would allow us to traverse the length and breadth of this history, I was inspired by the brilliant work of Osmund Tshuma of Mam'gobhozi Design Factory. He designed the brilliant logo for the re-launch of the Africa Centre using African motifs and symbols. 

I wondered if these symbols and motifs could be a way in to revealing the histories of the communities and people from this vast continent, especially the oral cultures. 

My daughter and I created this wall installation piece to map the distinct systems of motifs and symbols across the whole continent. Our hope is to demonstrate how these unique codes can unlock a narrative that provides an insight into beliefs, philosophies and values, the important initiation, ceremonies, rites and rituals that give a glimpse into everyday life of the peoples and communities in Africa.

Tamla Parris-Bah is a Heritage and Cultural Connector for the Arts and Marketing Association. What that means is that she facilitates a space (both in person and online) for practitioners working in museums, galleries, libraries and other places of historical and cultural interest, to come together and find solutions for common issues and concerns. She is also a Trustee and workshop facilitator for a brilliant human rights, social justice and campaigns charity called Journey to Justice.