“DELA: The Making of El Anatsui” Premieres at the 31st New York African Film Festival

The 31st New York African Film Festival screens the North American premiere of “DELA: The Making of El Anatsui.”

DELA is a deep dive into the life of this legendary artist, tracing his growth from his artistic endeavors to his rise to popularity in the art world. El Anatsui has pushed boundaries and made a lasting impression on the world of contemporary art.

The documentary provides viewers with an exceptional opportunity to observe the inner workings of El Anatsui’s creative process through personal interviews and archive material. It honors his contributions to the cultural landscape, from his modest beginnings to his massive hanging sculptures that decorate important institutions worldwide.

The documentary’s director, Oyiza Adaba, set out on a journey in 2013 after reaching a deal with El Anatsui. Through this process, an incredible 120-minute feature film with 90% original footage was produced for a wide range of viewers. Adaba’s partnership with Anatsui allows her to explore the artist’s life, highlighting his significant impact on the international art scene and the value of Africa’s rich cultural legacy. The video illustrates Anatsui’s widespread recognition by capturing his contributions to recognizable sites in the art world, such as the Museum of Modern Art in New York and the Royal Academy of Art in London. It is a token to Adaba’s commitment to showcasing African artistry on a worldwide platform, demonstrated in her devotion to depicting Anatsui’s journey.

DELA is proudly supported by: Jack Shainman Gallery NY, Meridian Creative Centre Ghana, Access Bank Ghana, 7 Up Nigeria,  and Africa Related Inc.