Reclaiming Echoes: A Reflection of African Culture and Legacy
Abdul Aziz (b. 1979, New York, NY; based in New Orleans, LA) is an artist and media designer known for his work as a photojournalist and documentary filmmaker. Aziz chronicles human conflict, urgent social issues, and cultural histories.
In Reclaiming Echoes: A Reflection of African Culture and Legacy, Aziz centers the powerful narratives and vibrant histories of two prominent African-centric communities near Mobile Bay in Alabama: Africatown and St. Adorka African Universal Church. Through photography and multimedia works, Aziz captures these communities’ essence, unique histories, and enduring spirit.
Aziz highlights a series of poignant photographs that reveal the resilience and perseverance of Africatown, a community founded by the last enslaved Africans brought illegally to the United States aboard the Clotilda in 1860. Despite facing innumerable challenges from environmental racism to economic disinvestment, Africatown has continued to prosper, and these images provide a glimpse into its captivating story.
The photographs of the African Universal Church showcase the significant role of spirituality and fellowship in the lives of African Americans who lived in a community called Little Africa. The vibrant worship practices of the denomination are vividly documented, offering a window into the rich cultural heritage that shapes the lives of those within the community.
This exhibition is organized by Kilolo Luckett, executive director and chief curator, in collaboration with Abdul Aziz; exhibition installation was handled with care by Camila Centeno Bonnet, exhibition and digital content manager, and Marco Femiani, gallery and studio manager.
