name: itunu

sponsor: quiet

collaborator: araba ankuma

year: 2024

itunu is an ambitious audio-spatial installation i am developing that will serve as the ultimate launch of my spatial design studio. born from grief, the work explores the impact of natural landscapes on culture and spirituality to form a Black understanding of healing. the final rendition will pay homage to water as the chosen landscape, drawing heavily on indigo-dyed textiles to create that space. the experience will feature live performances by Black queer independent artists who grapple with healing generational trauma in their music.

as the first prototype focused on textile and sound, and this second one focuses on seating for viewers.

inspired by artist and sculptor, araba ankuma’s, WET series through which the artist explored a world where water and plastic become synonymous — these initial 3D sketches borrow their shape from waves and ocean beds. seating is oriented towards a center with no stage to allow for full site and intimate connection to the musicians. various eye levels mimic the undulating nature of waves, buoyancy, and the unpredictable rhythms of grief and the ocean.