Hama Goro
(Mali)
Hama Goro was born in Dinangourou, in 1963. He belongs to the Dogon people. Hama Studied at the institute National des Arts in Bamako. Goro also worked at the Atelier d’Arte Plastique Jamana.
Hama Goro works with a traditional method, called Bogolan technique. Traditionally, Bogolan has been used only for clothing. “Hama is inspired by this method used in Mali to color clothes. The ingredients of the various colours originate from natural products like clay, leaves and bark from trees. The colours had a symbolic significance and were used during ritual ceremonies. For example with the Dogon people ochre-yellow is exclusively used by the hunters; the black colour was only for those taking care of the animals. Bogolan is a Bamara word and derives from Bogo which means clay/mud; lan means from – thus made from clay. All those colours are obtained by cooking the ingredients. Sometimes I mix these with acrylic powder.” (http://www.africaserver.nl/virtual/exhibitions/hama/)
Hama Goro draws inspiration from the various social, economic, and political situations around him. He also finds inspiration in the West ans the western views of Africa. Hama can see the effects of the western world on Africa and its many cultures. The conflict between tradition and modern life often shows in Hama’s work.
 Beau temps – natural paint on textile 1996 |
Solitude – natural paint on textile
1996
I love the way Hama Goro can invoke the sense of solitude. These two painting are magnificent. They are both done in the Bogolan technique. By using simplistic colors Hama has relied on the use of light to portray the figures and their surroundings. I think he makes great use of his training and traditions. He has kept the spirit of African art alive in his exemplary works.
I encourage you to take a look at all of Hama Goro’s pieces. Please enjoy.
