MAMADOU BOYE DIALLO

Known by his graf name Modboye, Boye Diallo launched Yataal Art

in 2010, inviting artists to paint colonial buildings at risk of destruction in Médina. Yataal Art means ‘expanded art’ in Wolof. Boye Diallo also participates in Dak’Art and hosts art tours through Médina. The neighbourhood was settled in 1914 after the French forced Black Senegalese from the Plateau district. It has been an artistic hub ever since. “Médina is the soul of Dakar,” says Boye

Diallo, “and an outdoor museum.”

“Of interest beyond Médina, there’s the Musée des Civilisations Noires, which has incredible works. La Galerie Antenna is very important, with

bronze and wood masks and sculptures from across West and subSaharan Africa. Trames gallery hosts contemporary artist residencies and

apéros dînatoires on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.’”

“I shop at La Maison du Karité in Medina, which is owned by a couple

who make soaps and oils in the traditional way. It’s good to support that kind of know-how and it costs next to nothing. Ousmane Mbaye

Design is the project of Ousmane Mbaye, a local artist and furniture designer who is very well known for his work with galvanised metal and

emphasis on form. His pieces are genuine works of art.”

“After touring Médina, I head across the water to Îles de la Madeleine, which is mostly deserted, so you can bring a picnic. Another swimming spot is Plage des Mamelles, which has good waves and cliffs that the

rock climbers love. Set yourself up there at Chez Max, a relaxed thatched beach shack. It’s the best place to hang out in a hammock

and eat and drink between swims.” facebook.com/YataalArt

Clockwise from top right: work by Pape Diop, a Médina artist; Mamadou Boye Diallo in Médina; storefront of a soured-milk shop painted by artist Ibrahima