From the Deep: In the Wake of Drexciya with Ayana V. Jackson at the National Museum of African Art

For her first monographic exhibition, acclaimed photographer Ayana V. Jackson was inspired by the Detroit-based 1990s techno band Drexciya (musicians James Stinson and Gerald Donald) whose albums imagined a mythical aquatopia populated by descendants of pregnant African women thrown (or who jumped) overboard into the Atlantic Ocean during the Middle Passage. In this exhibition, Jackson expands her practice to include animation, immersive video, installation, sound, and scent. She creates a series of haunting, yet profoundly beautiful and empowering encounters that draw upon African water spirits from Senegal to South Africa.

[@ameenahameed8874]

Looking forward to seeing this in person. So very deep - I get the chills thinking about it but grateful that we are reimagining, remembering and honoring our ancestors in this way ♥️

[@bgdojo]

This exhibit was amazing! I saw it for the first time yesterday, and my jaw was on the floor

[@cactiitoot4407]

this is absolutely incredible work. wow.

[@mariskaneerman]

Stunning work

[@Corey_Brandt]

Wow I never realized the Smithsonian did world building exhibits haha

[@zenelements4343]

Amazing artwork and exhibit, truly exciting and inspiring.

[@TresorRecords]

❤

[@khatmusique9589]

Thanks for doing this ❤❤

[@segura2112]

Haunting.

[@7concepts1]

Great exhibition.

[@Ynotmeansbusiness]

Amazing!