Explore the bold patterns and cultural traditions of Malian mud cloth in this 50-minute class designed for students in grades K–7, with older students and adults welcome to join.

Originated by women of Mali’s Bamana culture centuries ago, the earth-dyed cloth reflects wealth, cultural status, and position. Contemporary designers have embraced the rich graphics of the Malian mud cloth of bógólanfini as a symbol of African culture and heritage.

Nfon Asuquo, teaching artist, will introduce students to symbolic patterns, allowing them to create a simple Malian mud cloth design of their own.

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About the instructor:

Nfon Asuquo is a clothing designer, painter, and graphic designer in Virginia Beach. He received his B.A. in Studio Art from Chowan University and is pursuing his Master of Fine Arts in Visual Studies at Norfolk State University. Nfon has exhibited his work in Atlanta, New York City, and Newport News, and has participated in an artist residency in Dallas. He has also been involved in community outreach by participating in nonprofit asphalt mural collaborations with the City of Norfolk.

* Children may not be left unattended at this event.

In partnership with Arts 4 Learning Virginia.

This event is funded in part by the citizens of Virginia Beach through a grant from the City of Virginia Beach Cultural Affairs.