Aya's Rhythymic Wave from Level Ground Resident Artist Aya Umoh is celebrating its opening at UCLA's Broad Art Center, EDA on Wednesday, September 25th from 5-8:30pm.

The live performance that activates the gallery is scheduled for 6:30pm. Light refreshments will be available. Huge thanks to our gallery partners UCLA Social Software and UCLA Design Media Arts.

Exhibition Description

Aya's Rhythmic Wave invites you to explore the artist's Akwa Ibom heritage through a visionary blend of movement, storytelling, and interactive art. This groundbreaking performance, co-created with AI, reimagines tradition in a futuristic light, offering a fresh perspective on the rich beauty of Nigerian culture, inspired by her afrofuturistic short story, Galactic Griot.

The gallery will close on October 1 after a conversation between Aya Umoh and Bri Stokes at 5:30pm. To schedule a gallery appointment, please email team@levelground.co.

Artist Statement

Dance is not just movement but a vibrant expression of culture, history, and the human spirit. When paired with technology, it has the potential to evolve into an experiential narrative of joy and celebration, inviting audiences into the very heart of these traditions. My body of work explores the rich legacy of traditional African movement and the dynamic innovations of the present.

At the core of my exploration is the Ekombi dance from the Efik people of Nigeria. This dance isn’t just a series of steps; it’s a living narrative, a heritage exuding jubilation. While Ekombi’s essence is deeply rooted in tradition, there’s an exciting potential for remixing its elements to evolve movement through a digital lens.

This show is more than just an artistic exploration. It’s a commitment to preserving and elevating our cherished dance traditions from Nigeria, ensuring they resonate vibrantly in today’s digital age. The aim is to craft a bridge that brings audiences on a transformative journey, an immersive narrative that captures the joy and celebration intrinsic to Ekombi.

As you navigate this blend of tradition and innovation, ponder a question: In our rapidly changing world, how can we keep our revered dance traditions alive, allowing them to flourish and inspire in fresh, contemporary ways?

—Aya Umoh

Dig Deeper

Explore the critical, creative, and imaginative foundations of Aya's work by exporing her Residency Syllabus, "Traditional Rhythm // Future Frequencies."

Parking

• UCLA Parking Structure 3: 215 Charles E Young Dr North Los Angeles, CA 90024

• Be sure to park in a visitor parking spot (not a reserved one)

• Handicap parking and accessible entry is through the elevators at the South end of the parking garage

• There are pay stations in the garage and visitor parking is $4/hour

• When you exit the garage, walk to Broad Art Center: 240 Charles E Young Drive North

• More detailed parking instructions are available here

Important Details

• Masks will be provided and are encouraged (but not required)

• Please contact us at team@levelground.co if you have specific questions regarding accessing this space

About the Residency Program

Every year, Level Ground's Residency Program provides a space of experimentation, collaboration, and mentorship for a new group of emerging artists who have been historically marginalized from the art world. The artists, who create work at the intersections of identity, are provided with resources and guidance over a year-long cycle. The program culminates in what is for many residents, their first solo gallery exhibition.

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