Call for proposals: Cosmologies of the South project in Nigeria

The project welcomes the collection and visualisation of cosmological knowledge as well as and artistic exploration of it. For this purpose, not only the major cultures (Yoruba, Igbo, Haussa) should be focused on but also projects that engage with smaller groups (Ijaw, Ogoni, Ibibio) are also encouraged.

The institute is inviting artistic research around questions such as:

• What Nigerian cosmological knowledge systems say about the world.
• How to engage with them.
• The aesthetic language of these systems.
• How this knowledge can be reactivated and what can be learnt from them.

Background

The question of the origin of the universe and the planet is a universal one. On the African continent, cosmological knowledges have become more visible through the popularity of Afrofuturism in recent years. A significant example in this regard is in today’s Nigeria, the Ifa oracle of the Yoruba. 

These knowledges are also linked to aesthetic practices and reflected artistic representation of local cosmologies. But due to colonialism and the increasing dominance of monotheistic religions in the post-independence era, much of these knowledges have become invisible or less relevant. 

This project aims to carry the deep past of indigenous knowledges about the universe and our planet into the future, starting from Nigeria. 

Eligibility

• The project is open to Nigerian artists, collectives, creative practitioners and researchers based in Nigeria and its diaspora.
• The research should archival material and/or oral literature.
• Archival research between artists and researchers are welcome.
• The presentation of the research should include artistic methods. 

How to apply

• Applicants will propose how they would use a grant of up to €750 ($870) in a budget plan. Eligible budget items are fees, travel and research expenses.
• Applicants shall provide details about their project in a concept proposal of two pages maximum.
• A biography of all participants should also be included.
• Applicants would need to propose the format for how they will explore their specific question, e.g. through the form of graphics, film or photography.
• Applicants can add any links to their previous work that they think are relevant to the application.

The deadline for submission is 27 October.

Late submissions will not be considered. Proposals may be submitted to nadine.siegert@goethe.de with the subject line ‘Cosmologies’. All documents should be provided in one single PDF file.

View the original call here.