Arts

Benin has recently appointed acclaimed American filmmaker Spike Lee, alongside his wife, producer and author Tonya Lewis Lee, as ambassadors dedicated to connecting with African-Americans in the United States. Their mission transcends mere symbolism; it aims to strengthen bonds between Benin and the diaspora, while fostering cultural tourism and supporting initiatives that guide individuals back to their ancestral roots. This important announcement took place during the couple's visit to Benin's vibrant capital, Cotonou,…

In a significant step towards justice, French lawmakers have unanimously approved legislation to repatriate the Djidji Ayôkwé, a historic talking drum, to Côte d'Ivoire. This drum, over three meters in length and weighing an impressive 430 kilograms, was seized more than a century ago by colonial troops in 1916, following the refusal of local communities to participate in forced road construction. Such an act speaks volumes about the strained legacy of colonialism. Once a vital means of communication among the Atchan…

The moment Howard Carter uncovered the tomb of King Tutankhamun in November 1922, a wave of fascination rippled through the world. This was no ordinary archaeological find; it revealed treasures that had lain undisturbed for millennia, invoking dreams and tales that danced in the minds of historians and the public alike. However, this excitement soon gave way to chilling anecdotes. Mysteriously, several members of the excavation team, including Lord Carnarvon—Carter's financial backer—succumbed to sudden illnesses, leading…

Angélique Kidjo has taken a monumental step in history, becoming the first Black African artist to earn a star on the revered Hollywood Walk of Fame. This recognition is an extraordinary milestone, not only for Kidjo but for countless artists who dream of global influence. The vibrant, five-time Grammy-winning vocalist, hailing from Benin, is among the 2026 honorees, which also includes luminaries such as Miley Cyrus, Timothée Chalamet, and towering figure Shaquille O'Neal. Kidjo's journey through the music industry spans…

In a significant stride toward reconciliation and cultural restitution, the Netherlands has returned 119 ancient sculptures that were taken from the former Kingdom of Benin in southern Nigeria over a century ago. These remarkable artifacts, widely referred to as the Benin Bronzes, were the spoils of conflict during a turbulent chapter in history; they were seized in 1897 when British forces invaded and subsequently exiled the kingdom's ruler. This return marks not just a physical relocation of art but a profound…

Sarah Aderibigbe, known to the world as Ayra Starr, has made headlines once again. At the prestigious 25th annual BET Awards held at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles, she walked away with the coveted title of Best International Act for 2025. Her victory was remarkable, especially when considering the formidable competition she faced. Among the nominees were notable names such as Tyla from South Africa, Rema representing Nigeria, and Black Sherif from Ghana. The list also included talents from across the globe, including…

Nigerian singer Tems is set to make history as the headliner for the inaugural halftime show of the FIFA Club World Cup final, happening at MetLife Stadium in New York on July 13. This groundbreaking event promises to be a vibrant fusion of sport and music, capturing the spirit of the global football community. The production, orchestrated by Global Citizen, will ensure that the enthralling performance is accessible to a wide audience, as it will be broadcast live and free on DAZN.com. This decision not only democratizes…

The recent repatriation of stolen artifacts has garnered attention, thanks to the diligent efforts of the Egyptian embassy in Paris and the cooperation of French authorities. These invaluable pieces of history were poised for illegal sale, a fate they narrowly escaped. This incident is a testament to the tireless work being done on behalf of Egypt’s cultural heritage. It’s not just about returning physical objects; it’s about reclaiming a nation’s identity, woven into the very fabric of its history. Would you believe that,…

In a poignant moment for South Africa’s artistic community, the nation is collectively mourning the loss of actor Presley Chweneyagae, who tragically passed away at the young age of 40. His untimely departure leaves a palpable void, both onscreen and off. Chweneyagae first captured global attention in 2005 with his compelling portrayal in the Oscar-winning film Tsotsi. This gripping narrative not only showcased his exceptional talent but also served as a stark reflection of the social disparities and hardships faced in…

Passion Beyond the Dojang For Kwon Woo Park, affectionately known as Sunny, martial arts transcends the boundaries of mere practice. It embodies a lifelong commitment to foster inspiration, facilitate growth, and promote unity among diverse communities. Through the revolutionary influence of Kombat Taekwondo USA and the esteemed Master Park’s Black Belt America, he is redefining what it means to thrive in martial arts—as both a discipline and a fulfilling career. Sunny's vision is strikingly clear: to…