Gaamangwe Mogami, founder and chief editor of Africa in Dialogue has released what is probably first of its kind in the continent – a collection of interviews from writers across Africa. With an introduction by Nigerian writer, Emmanuel Iduma, Africa in Dialogue – First Issue features interviews with Taban Lo Liyong, Umar Turaki, Sarah Owusu, Justin Irabor, Poetra Asantewa, Abimbola Adelakun, Servio Gbadamosi, Ernest Kodjo Ayikpah, Sam Omatseye, Sefi Atta and Nii Ayikwei Parkes.
In the words of Emmanuel Iduma, ‘We did not seek these eleven dialogues to understand in full what the artists were thinking while making the work. All the dialogues relay in part, suggesting what occurs to the interviewee at the moment when the question was asked. The ideal interview pitches forward, for perhaps the artist might encounter a mystery in their work while responding to a question. Perhaps we should scramble for words that imply these dialogues as back-and-forth propositions.’
Praxis congratulates the team at Africa in Dialogue on its first issue. We are thoroughly enjoying the depth of the conversations. You will too! Download here.