Ground/work 2025: A Close Look—Bana Yiriw ni Shi Folow

A Clark educator leads a close examination and in-depth discussion around the outdoor sculpture Bana Yiriw ni Shi Folow (Trees and Seeds of Life) by artist Aboubakar Fofana. The artist, who has redefined and reinvigorated West African indigo dying techniques, includes spirals of handwoven, hand-dyed cloth made from plants grown on his farm in Mali in his sculpture, a "tree of life." Through guided conversation and reflection, participants consider how the artist's work is in active dialogue with the Clark's natural environment. Requires a moderate hike on uneven and occasionally steep terrain. Held rain or shine; extreme weather cancels the event. Image: Aboubakar Fofana, Bana Yiriw ni Shi Folow (Trees and Seeds of Life) , 2025, handwoven and hand-dyed long-staple African cotton, steel. Courtesy of the artist A Clark educator leads a close examination and in-depth discussion around the outdoor sculpture Bana Yiriw ni Shi Folow (Trees and Seeds of Life) by artist Aboubakar Fofana. The artist, who has redefined and reinvigorated West African indigo dying techniques, includes spirals of handwoven, hand-dyed cloth made from plants grown on his farm in Mali in his sculpture, a "tree of life." Through guided conversation and reflection, participants consider how the artist's work is in active dialogue with the Clark's natural environment. Requires a moderate hike on uneven and occasionally steep terrain. Held rain or shine; extreme weather cancels the event. Image: Aboubakar Fofana, Bana Yiriw ni Shi Folow (Trees and Seeds of Life) , 2025, handwoven and hand-dyed long-staple African cotton, steel. Courtesy of the artist