Charity Derby Akeiti is a multifaceted artist and advocate, working as a colour consultant, art journalist, painter, sculptor, and graphic and textile designer. Throughout her career, she has focused on issues affecting women in West African society, using her unique perspective and artistic talents to highlight the stories of women in her community across various mediums. Akeiti’s commitment to using art for social change has earned her respect in the art world and among advocacy circles.
For the Chalewote Street Art Festival 2024, Akeiti will present a piece that reimagines the contemporary perceptions and concepts surrounding the Battle of Guinea in 1478, a pivotal event that paved the way for a brutal colonial conquest, often referred to as the “empire of horrors.” This conquest devastated some of the remaining Indigenous civilisations along the Guinea coast.
Akeiti will work on a large festival canvas, using acrylic on bleached yellow fabric to create a visually striking piece. Her use of vibrant colours and intricate details will capture the complexity of this historical event. Through this work, Akeiti aims to provoke thought and inspire dialogue about the impact of oppressive regimes on Indigenous cultures, bringing attention to often overlooked narratives in history. Her art seeks to challenge viewers to reflect on these difficult topics, making space for important conversations about the legacies of colonialism and the resilience of Indigenous peoples.