TOGO: ART AND LITERATURE

The art of Togo is similar to that of its neighbors, Ghana and Benin. In Togo, animism is practiced by nearly a third of the population (perhaps more if you count the people who practice animism and another religion in tandem), and it’s worked itself into the fabric of their culture. Small carved statues and sculptures are extremely common and have a variety of meanings and different areas of worship. For example, the ibéji statue is in honor of the worship of twins. And two characters with interlocking rings carved from one piece of wood represents the bond of marriage. Wooden masks are also carved and worn for different occasions.

Fabric dying is also a common art in Togo. Dyed batik-style fabric comes in many different colors and patterns, each signifying different aspects of life. Today, these clothes are used in formal or ceremonial events. Batik fabric is also used to make pictures out of and hang them as prints.

There are a few modern-style artists from Togo who have made a name for themselves. The painter Sokey Edorh is known for his prints of the people and animals of Togo and how they change with the environment. Paul Ahyi is another artist who mainly works in zota, a style of pyro engraving. His works are not only showcased in Lomé, but they’re also internationally known.

Work by Paul Ahyi, almost reminds me a little of Gustav Klimt meets African style art.

I couldn’t find much on early literature in Togo, but I’m imagining that it’s probably the same thing that I’ve seen in much of this part of the world. Storytelling of epic poetry and local histories that may also serve as parables have been passed down from generation to generation. However, written literature as we know it didn’t really start to become a thing until the early part of the 20th century. As Togo had shifted through colonial powers and was eventually run by the French, a lot of their literature during this time reflected this period where day-to-day life seemed precarious. Félix Couchoro was one such author who wrote during this time, making him among Africa’s first authors to be published during this time. Choosing to write in French, I think it gave him a larger audience (and especially one who probably needed to hear what he had to say).

Félix Couchoro

As Togo geared up toward independence during the 1950s, many other writers emerged. David Ananou first published his novel Le Fils du fétiche in 1955 which is often considered one of the first Togolese novels. A few other authors from this transitional period include Victor Aladji, Julien Atsou Guenou, Gnoussira Analla, and Tété Michel Kpomassié (who wrote about his time he spent with the Inuit).

There were also quite a few playwrights from Togo. Anoumou Pedro Santos got them started with his play Fasi that he published in 1956. If you’re interested in the theatre, you should check out the works of Henri Ajavon, Modest d’Almeida, and Gilbert Laclé.

Christiane Akoua Ekua

I’m glad to see there are quite a few women getting books published in Togo as well, including Pyabelo Kouly Chaold (famous for her book Memories of Twelve Years Spent in Germany), Christiane Akoua Ekue, Gad Ami, and Emilie Anifrani Ehah (known for her short stories).

Up next: music and dance