DELA ANYAH
Dela Anyah is an artist and researcher in Accra, Ghana, working across sculpture, installation, moving image, and archival research.
MessageThe title Chidiogo, meaning "God is gracious" in Igbo, is inspired by the rich linguistic and cultural traditions of West Africa. Igbo (Ásụ̀sụ̀ Ìgbò), a Niger-Congo language spoken primarily in Nigeria, is known for the deep meaning embedded in its names.
As an artist of Ewe and Ga heritage, I draw from Ghanaian naming traditions, where names reflect the circumstances of birth. I’ve adopted this approach in my work, naming pieces to capture the emotions or moments surrounding their creation—whether joy, gratitude, or contemplation. Initially, I incorporated Yoruba names, influenced by the Ga people's Yoruba roots and the parallels between Yoruba and Ewe naming customs. Over time, I began exploring Igbo names, drawn to their poetic resonance and layered meanings.
This piece, Chidiogo, is meticulously crafted using innovative weaving techniques to transform discarded inner tubes into sculpture. Rooted in upcycling principles, it reimagines materials sourced from vulcanizer shops and industrial spaces, elevating the discarded into something contemplative and profound.