Spreading knowledge

More than simply collecting and exhibiting, an important mission of the MIAA is to support the dissemination of traditional know-how to younger generations in Togo.

After becoming a full member of the International Council of Museum in 2016, the museum is now an officially recognized platform for art education, and Togolese students have become frequent visitors to the museum.

“Not only do we explain the story behind the ancient artworks, but students also have the opportunity to see these creations in real life, not just in photographs or on the Internet,” said Pesse.

The museum has proved to be such an efficient teaching venue that schools in neighboring countries also started to organize trips to the museum.

“The museum’s courtyard is often filled with the happy laughter of teachers and children, who do not want to leave,” said Xie.

Another concern of the MIAA is supporting the local craft industry. In collaboration with Togolese craftsmen, the museum is in the process of creating its own collection of cultural and creative souvenirs to be sold to visitors.

The museum has set itself the task of popularizing creations of local craftsmen among tourists, explains Xie.

“We are helping local artists create souvenirs that tourists from China and elsewhere appreciate. Also, we hope that some Chinese designers can have closer contacts with African art, to find inspiration and create new products with African characteristics,” he said.

This initiative is also a solution to create an additional source of revenue for the museum, to ensure its long-term sustainability. “Although ticket sales help pay part of the costs, it is far from enough to cover the daily expenses of the museum,” explained Xie.

For him, building bridges between Togolese and Chinese artists is a calling to which he has devoted the last 28 years of his life. “It’s a great project worthy of a dream,” he said. Comments to francoisdube@chinafrica.cn