Sankofa Love is a piece rooted in remembrance and celebration—a visual tribute to the profound cultural wisdom embedded in the Sankofa symbol. At 8 by 10 inches, this mixed-media artwork combines layers of tissue paper, vibrant Kente cloth fabric, fabric paint, and holographic vinyl, all mounted on a wood panel and sealed with UV protective resin to preserve its depth and color.
The composition centers on the word “Sankofa,” crafted in bold, decorative lettering that gleams with holographic vinyl and is gently outlined in textured fabric paint. Above this, a stylized heart-shaped Adinkra symbol emerges, its swirling patterns formed in 3D fabric paint, creating movement and a tactile presence that draws you in. Surrounding this focal point is a bright Kente cloth background—a vivid traditional African textile—defined by a crisp blue tissue paper border that anchors the piece and enhances its visual harmony.
Sankofa translates to “go back and fetch” in the Akan language of Ghana. It is a reminder to honor our origins, to reconnect with the heritage that shapes us, and to recognize that true growth often requires embracing where we come from. In African-American communities, this symbol speaks to a collective love for cultural identity and history, urging us never to lose sight of the paths that precede us.
This artwork grew from my personal connection to Sankofa, a symbol that carries both cultural significance and emotional resonance. Its message guided every deliberate choice in material and form, reflecting a journey inward and backward to uncover strength and love rooted in ancestry. The layers of fabric, paint, and holographic elements echo the complexity and richness of this heritage, crafting an experience that feels both intimate and expansive.
Creating Sankofa Love was not just about representing a symbol—it was about embodying its spirit. That process required patience and attention to detail, balancing textures and colors to create a composition that feels alive with meaning. The heart-shaped Adinkra in particular became a focal point of emotional expression, inviting viewers to consider love as the connective thread linking past, present, and future.
Sankofa Love invites you to reflect on your own journey—on how looking back can empower moving forward. It stands as a visual reminder that honoring your roots cultivates a deeper understanding of yourself and your place in the world. Through this piece, I hope to encourage a thoughtful embrace of heritage as a source of identity, strength, and enduring love.
