Mami Wata: Arts for Water Spirits in Africia and Its Diasporas August 5, 2010

This exhibition is the first major American exhibition to present a comprehensive examination of the dynamic visual arts associated with water spirits. More than 200 works present a compelling range of art forms that portray the water deity widely known as Mami Wata (pidgin English for "Mother Water" or "Water Mistress"). The exhibition highlights both traditional and contemporary images of Mami Wata and her consorts from across the African continent, as well as from the Caribbean, Brazil, and the United States. It offers a rich variety of media including magnificent masks, kinetic sculptures, vibrant paintings and inspired shrine recreations.