FAQ

Understanding Ancestor Project: Culture, Memory, and Community

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What is Ancestor Project?

    Ancestor Project is a collaborative artistic and cultural initiative led by African creatives. It brings together art, education, performance, and storytelling to reconnect communities — especially young people — with African heritage, identity, and ancestral wisdom.

  2. Is Ancestor Project only about slavery?

    Not at all. While the Transatlantic Slave Trade is one chapter in Africa’s history, the Ancestor Project focuses on the full spectrum of African experience — including art, language, spirituality, migration, innovation, and resilience. The project celebrates the richness of African culture and its ongoing evolution.

  3. What is the Nkyinkyim Installation?

    Nkyinkyim is a monumental, evolving sculpture installation designed by Ghanaian artist Kwame “KABE” Akoto-Bamfo. It uses thousands of handcrafted figures and sculptural scenes to tell layered stories about African memory, history, and identity — from precolonial times to today.

  4. Is Nkyinkyim just a monument about slavery?

    No. Nkyinkyim includes sections that address the Transatlantic Slave Trade, but the entire monument is much broader in focus. It explores migration, culture, resistance, spirituality, and the beauty of African life throughout the ages.

  5. Does Nkyinkyim generalize Africa’s history?

    No — in fact, it challenges that idea. African cultures and histories existed long before modern borders were created. Nkyinkyim draws from shared ancestral themes while respecting the diversity and complexity of African peoples across regions.

  6. How is the Ancestor Project funded?

    Our work is made possible through a mix of art sales, creative services by our partner Osramba, and generous contributions from individuals and organizations who believe in our mission.

  7. How long will the project last?

    Each component of Ancestor Project has its own timeline. Some are short-term events or workshops, while others — like the Nkyinkyim Installation — are long-term and ongoing. The goal is to sculpt over 11,111 figures over a span of 10+ years.

  8. How far along is the Nkyinkyim Installation?

    As of now, over 1,300 sculptures have been completed. The project is in continuous development, with new figures and thematic sections being added every year.

  9. How can I contribute or get involved?

    There are many ways to support the Ancestor Project:
    Spread the word: Share our mission and our art on social media or within your community.
    Join the dialogue: We welcome conversations about heritage, memory, and cultural storytelling.
    Share knowledge: Are you researching African history, philosophy, or symbolism? Let’s connect.
    Collaborate creatively: Artists, designers, animators, musicians — we invite you to co-create with us.

  10. Are your school visits free?

    Yes, school visits are offered at no cost. However, because we operate within an annual budget, early communication helps us plan effectively and include more schools in our outreach.

  11. How are schools selected for your programs?

    Most visits are arranged by direct invitation from schools. If you’d like to see Ancestor Project in your classroom or organization, reach out and recommend us — we’re always open to connecting.