What's Happening?
The Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) is set to open with a major exhibition in Benin City, challenging the Western-centric narrative of restitution. The museum aims to redefine restitution beyond the return
of stolen artifacts, focusing on empowering West African creatives and communities. During colonial times, significant cultural objects were looted from West Africa, but the loss extended beyond objects to include infrastructure and systems supporting cultural production. MOWAA's mission is to restore opportunities and infrastructure for young artists, scholars, and communities. The museum's first exhibition, 'Nigeria Imaginary: Homecoming,' features contemporary Nigerian artists, emphasizing the connection between local and global art worlds. MOWAA seeks to build cultural infrastructure that supports the arts and culture sector in West Africa, moving beyond the narrative of victimhood and Western atonement.
Why It's Important?
The opening of MOWAA represents a significant shift in the restitution debate, focusing on the broader definition of restitution that includes restoring opportunities and infrastructure. This approach empowers West African artists and communities, providing them with the resources to thrive and compete globally. The museum's mission challenges the Western narrative that centers on the return of objects, emphasizing the need for investment in the future of West African arts and culture. The initiative has the potential to reshape the cultural landscape in West Africa, fostering creativity and innovation. It also highlights the importance of addressing the real challenges and opportunities within the arts and culture sector, rather than solely focusing on the return of artifacts.
What's Next?
MOWAA's opening exhibition and campus development mark the beginning of a long journey to redefine restitution and build cultural infrastructure in West Africa. The museum plans to continue expanding its exhibitions and facilities, supporting research, conservation, and the study of arts and culture. The initiative aims to earn the trust of stakeholders and relevant authorities, addressing questions about the safe-keeping and display of cultural objects. MOWAA's approach could influence other institutions and stakeholders involved in the restitution debate, encouraging a broader understanding of restitution that includes investment in cultural infrastructure and opportunities.
Beyond the Headlines
MOWAA's mission raises important questions about the responsibilities of African nation-states and traditional rulers in the restitution process. The initiative challenges the Western-centric narrative, emphasizing the need for agency and decision-making by Africans. The museum's focus on contemporary art and cultural production highlights the dynamic and evolving nature of West African arts and culture. The initiative could lead to long-term shifts in how restitution is understood and implemented, fostering greater collaboration and understanding between African and Western institutions.
