Memories to the Future
HAKO HANKSON
January 5 - October 22nd, 2022
Memory to the Future
In this first exhibiton 'Memory to the Future' at NGALA, we bring Hako Hankson’s personal struggle between tradition and modernity to the forefront. Hankson sees modernization’s ramifications as a threat to African cultural heritage. Religion is becoming less popular and is subsequently threatening cultural heritage in Africa. His paintings visualize his fears, albeit his intention is to make the viewer aware, to remember and to preserve. The faces in his work are traces of cultural heritage, of memories he wants us to remember and preserve and bring to the future.
Hako Hankson
B.1968 Bafang, Cameroon
Lives & works in Douala
Born in 1968 in Bafang, Cameroon, Hako Hankson's paintings combine multiple narratives that draw inspiration from his upbringing as the village Chief's son
in Cameroon. He remembers attending initiation ceremonies conducted by his father in his hometown, Bafang, the visual iconography of which has greatly influenced his work. In addition to being the Nobel Chief, his father was
a known sculptor and musician. Living and working in Douala, Hankson is inspired by masks, sculptures and totems used for initiation rites. His works marry the profane with the sacred and longstanding traditions with the new in a continuous effort to encourage Africans to redefine their African-ness. Besides his own practice, Hankson transforms his studio into an art centre where he provides studio space and mentoring to local artists. He lives and works in Doula, his work has been exhibited across the continent.
