Ep 4. The Triptych

Afropop: The Ultimate Cultural Exchange is a documentary series that explores the cultural and social impact of contemporary African art, music, and film. In season 7 episode 4 titled "The Triptych," we journey to three countries in East Africa to explore the dynamic art scene and the important role the arts play in community building and social justice.

First, we visit Tanzania's bustling commercial capital, Dar es Salaam, where we meet a group of young artists who are challenging the traditional art forms of their country. Among them is Rehema Chachage, an activist and visual artist whose work focuses on issues affecting women, such as child marriage and female genital mutilation. We also meet spoken word poets such as Akamba and Kauzzy, who use their art to express social and political commentary on issues such as government corruption and inequality.

Next, we travel to Uganda, where we meet Xenson, a fashion designer and visual artist who's using his work to inspire and support the local youth. He's founded a creative center that provides young people with training in the arts, media, and technology, and works with them to develop and showcase their talents. We also meet Zohra Opoku, a Ghanaian-German artist currently based in Kampala, whose work explores issues related to identity, race, and gender.

Finally, we journey to Kenya, where we meet Michael Soi, one of Nairobi's most celebrated artists. Soi's work is often political in nature and addresses social issues such as corruption, poverty, and the impact of globalization on African societies. We also meet the founders of The Nest Collective, a multidisciplinary arts collective based in Nairobi that's using film, music, and activism to promote cultural awareness and social change.

Throughout the episode, we see how these artists are using their creativity to engage with their local communities and create positive change. They're using their work to address important social and political issues, such as gender inequality, government corruption, and the impact of globalization on African societies. By doing so, they're creating a new generation of artists who are not only entertaining but also making a meaningful contribution to their societies.

Overall, "The Triptych" is a fascinating journey through the dynamic and diverse arts scenes of three East African countries. Through the personal stories of these artists, we gain insight into the complex forces shaping society in the region and the vital role the arts play in creating a more just and equitable future.