Tony Williams (USA) was a finalist in Paper on Skin in both 2018 (two works) and 2020 (three works). He has exhibited extensively and undertaken numerous artistic residences.
AYA (pronounced as “eye–ah”) is part of adinkra—visual symbols linked to the (former) Gyaman kingdom (Côte d'Ivoire) and Ashanti culture (Ghana). The word Aya is derived from the Twi language, and is translated to “fern”. Aya is a symbol of endurance, resourcefulness, and defiance against oppression.
Spiritual meaning: In African legend, a love of cowrie shells shows that you could be family to an ocean spirit of wealth and earth. It also represents the Goddess of protection in the ocean. In Africa, and in the Americas, the cowrie symbolized destiny and prosperity. Also thought of as the mouth of Orisha, and believed to have taught stories of humility and respect.
AYA has a resourcefulness, and an adorned defiance against oppression. A copper wire corset with casted paper cowrie shells will complete the look.
Materials: Copper paper from Awagami Factory, hand casted paper cowrie shells.
Tony Williams WEBSITE
MAKING OF images - supplied by artist
