ICYMI - AFROQUATICS & READING LIST

In February 2024, Afroquatics: A Call and Response Below the Surface, an immersive and interactive installation by then City of Victoria Artist in Residence, Kemi Craig, sparked conversations, challenge perceptions, and transported viewers into an experiential underwater landscape.

Afroquatics pulled inspiration from African spiritual practices of Orisha, the little-known history of expert freedivers that existed throughout coastal communities in West Africa, and underwater worlds imagined by many artists and storytellers of the African diaspora such as electronic music duo, Drexciya.

The Greater Victoria Public Library Afroquatics reading list is still available for those interested in learning more about the topics covered in the exhibition. Titles include 2018 Scotiabank Giller Prize winner, Esi Edugyan’s Washington Black, Skin of the Sea by Natasha Bowen and The Deep by Rivers Solomon, one of NPR’s Best Books of 2019. Click below to view the list:

What to Read After Visiting AGGV’s Afroquatics Exhibition

Greater Victoria Public Library (syndetics.com)

If you weren’t able to experience this unique installation in the AGGV’s Drury Gallery, not to worry! Here are some selected photos and videos of the exhibition opening from February 2024: