But Them Can’t Be God: Chinese Textiles in Nigerian Dress and the Art of Ayo Akinwande

Authors

Erin M. Rice, Freie Universitaet BerlinFollow

Abstract

This article explores the influence of Chinese actors in the Nigerian textile industry through the lens of a work by the artist Ayo Akinwande. By examining a sartorial practice called aso-ebi, the author argues that the growth of this practice over the course of the 20^th century paved the way for an influx of cheap, printed cloth from China. Akinwande’s work titled, “Win-Win,” uses the metaphor of indigenous dress and patterned fabric to illustrate that Chinese involvement in Nigerian affairs extends beyond textiles to the construction industry.

Recommended Citation

Rice, Erin M.. "But Them Can’t Be God: Chinese Textiles in Nigerian Dress and the Art of Ayo Akinwande." Artl@s Bulletin 9, no. 1 (2020): Article 5.