Ghanaian artist Moh Awudu unveils stunning Sankofa Mural in New Jersey (PHOTOS)
Newark, the vibrant city known for its rich cultural diversity and thriving public art scene, has recently added two awe-inspiring pieces to its collection.
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Among them is a towering 60-foot-tall mural that pays homage to Ghanaian artist Mohammad "Moh" Awudu's West African heritage. Named "Sankofa" - meaning "go back and get it" - the mural was officially unveiled by city officials and the talented artist at 2 Treat Place.
Moh Awudu, born and raised in Nima, a suburb of Accra, Ghana, arrived in Newark in early June to participate in the AfroBeat Fest, a significant event coordinated by First Lady Linda Baraka. The occasion also celebrates the longstanding Sister City relationship between Newark and various cities in Ghana, further strengthening the connection between the two communities.
The massive 4,000-square-foot masterpiece took approximately three weeks to complete, and it showcases a powerful and captivating composition. At its forefront, a woman is adorned with a vibrant Dukus (turban), locking eyes with passersby and exuding strength and resilience. Surrounding her, the mural features an array of African iconography and Islamic calligraphy, with Adinkra symbols symbolizing unity, God's supremacy, toughness, and perseverance.
The Arabic word "Iqra," meaning "read," is emphasized, underlining the importance of language in fostering community development and inclusivity. Birds flying throughout the background allude to migration, serving as a reminder to embrace one's roots even when establishing a new home.
The message conveyed by the mural is one of universal truth and self-discovery. Moh Awudu said, "This mural represents a universal truth, that each of us, no matter our culture, race, or belief system, holds within us the key to understanding and liberation. If we can be still long enough to be guided by our own heartbeat, we will find our way toward every answer we need." The artwork stands as a testament to love, generosity, and the shared human experience.
Located at Treat Place, within the Four Corners Public Arts project, between Branford Place and Williams Street, the mural was commissioned by the City of Newark Division of Arts and Cultural Affairs, organized by Four Corners Public Arts, and supported by Invest Newark. It fittingly graces Branford Place, the former site of the Islamic Society of Essex County and its historic mosque, adding an even deeper cultural resonance to the artwork.
Mayor Ras Baraka expressed his appreciation for the mural's significance, saying, "'Sankofa' could well be a motto for our City of Newark, as we reflect on where, and what, our residents have come from, come through, and come to. When we draw on the ancestral wisdom we carry within us and use it as a guiding light through current challenges, we honour our traditions and safeguard our future. I'm so grateful to Mr. Awudu for expressing this truth here in the middle of our downtown district."
