Department of Cultural Affairs

By Psyche Cho
Staff Reporter

A two-day exhibition highlighting African culture as well as a fashion show on its ethnic clothing will be held to celebrate Africa Day on May 25. The event is jointly organized by the ROC Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Taipei City Government in a bid to advance friendship and cultural exchanges with the nations of Africa.

Staged at Shin Kong Mitsukoshi Plaza, the event will be held May 26 and 27 and is in tune with the cultural diplomacy policies proposed by President Ma Ying-jeou, according to a statement from MOFA. Foreign Minister Timothy Yang, ambassadors from ROC African allies, and the Commissioner of the Cultural Department of Taipei City Government will attend the opening ceremony tomorrow morning.

The event also serves as a window that enables local people to experience African traditions. A runway show featuring creations of noted African designer Clara Lawson Ames will kick off the celebration. This is followed by a dance performance presented by Ballet national du Burkina to strong rhythms. Two Taiwan-based African music troupes, the Shock Concert Band and Sibongie Workshop, will also join to complement the show.

A static exhibition consisting of a collection of 500 artworks ranging from bronze and woven sculptures to traditional textiles and children’s paintings will be on display along with explanations to further local people’s understanding of Africa.
 
Hands-on experiences will also be available during the two-day event, including hair braiding, face painting, clothing try-on, and free lessons on how to play traditional African musical instruments as well.

The event commemorates the founding of the Organization of African Unity following a meeting held May 25, 1963, an act which initiated regional integration as well as liberation from European colonial powers. African communities around the world have designated May 25 as Africa Day, and various activities are held in celebration each year.

The two-day event is free of charge and will run from 11 am until 9 pm.