Lost Song of the Middle Passage: ASIKO Explores Africa’s History Through Art
by Onyekwusi Glory Oluchi Oct 29, 2025
In a deeply moving and visually striking exhibition, ASIKO presents “Lost Song of the Middle Passage”, a profound exploration of African history, resilience, and cultural heritage. Curated by Femi Odunlami in partnership with Art Otel, the exhibition coincided with Black History Month, celebrating the legacy, creativity, and enduring spirit of African peoples.
Revisiting the Middle Passage
The Middle Passage, the harrowing transatlantic journey that transported millions of enslaved Africans to the Americas, remains one of the most significant and tragic chapters in world history. Through a series of evocative artworks, ASIKO captures the pain, displacement, and endurance of those who endured this forced migration. The exhibition’s pieces serve not only as reminders of history but also as acts of remembrance and homage to the lives lost.
Featured Artworks
The exhibition shows a collection of powerful pieces, each telling its own story:
- Crown of the Tide – shows the strength and vastness of the ocean that carried enslaved Africans across the sea.
- Those That Return I & II – reflects memory, healing, and the journey back to where it all began.
- The Water Bears Witness – honors the quiet stories held by the sea, witnessing pain, hope, and survival.
- The Ones Who Stayed – celebrates those who remained in Africa, keeping culture and traditions alive.
- Gathering of the Remembered – a heartfelt tribute to ancestors, remembering their struggles and resilience.
The exhibition was brought to life through performances, music, and interactive experiences. On opening night, guests were welcomed with a Bata drumming tribute to the Olokun Orisha by Kevin Haynes & Elegua Group. Visitors engaged in a conversation with Lisa Anderson & ASIKO, participated in Q&A sessions, and enjoyed a DJ set by Mazing Grace. Over the weekend, attendees experienced live music by The Folks, interactive artist sessions, and a screening of The Language You Cry In, blending visual art with performance to make the stories tangible.
The relevance of Lost Song of the Middle Passage cannot be overstated. By combining African art with music and storytelling, the exhibition highlights the enduring impact of slavery on African identity and culture. As historian Henry Louis Gates Jr. has noted, “Art allows us to confront the past and imagine a future in which history is neither forgotten nor repeated.” Exhibitions like this one allow African stories to be told in their own voice, preserving memory while celebrating creativity and resilience.
In the context of Black History Month, this exhibition stands as a vital reminder of the importance of remembering history, honoring ancestors, and acknowledging the ongoing influence of African heritage on contemporary culture. It shows how art can both educate and inspire, connecting people across generations and geographies.
