Africa Everyday, on display at the Alice C. Sabatini Gallery Jan. 15 through Feb. 19 showcases a rich collection of art representing eight tribes: Maasai from Kenya, Asante from Ghana, Baule and Dan from Ivory Coast, Loma from Liberia, Mende, from Sierra Leone and Dogon and Bamana from Mali. (See map.)

View the exhibit, mingle and socialize during the First Friday Reception Feb. 5 from 5:30-8:30 pm. The items on display were used by generations of tribespeople. Art and artifacts used for special ceremonies and for everyday are presented.

Some items are from the library's collection, and some are borrowed from private collections of Topekans who have lived or visited Africa.

On Feb. 13, some of these individuals will lead a discussion about how the country changed their lives. African Experiences begins at 2 pm in the Sabatini Gallery.

The exhibit features elder’s regalia worn by Gary K. Clarke, former director of the World Famous Topeka Zoo, when he was initiated as an honorary elder by the Maasai. Clarke, of Topeka, has taken more than 140 safaris to Africa.

In the Ivory Coast, a tribemember will wear a firewatcher mask – one of which will be on display – to alert the village of fire hazards, much like the role of a fire marshal or forest service officer in America. That mask is constructed out of what looks like an old flour sack with a red mask and cowrie shells for embellishment.

“It’s fun to marvel at the differences and similarities between our society and societies thousands of miles away,” said Sherry Best, Sabatini Gallery director.

Many of the textiles and beadwork are impeccably crafted and colorful. Some, like a wedding necklace made by mothers in the Maasai tribe to give to their bride-to-be daughters, are delicate and intricate, while others, like an ax used in tribal construction are crude.

The Sabatini Gallery, which is open during regular library hours, is the oldest public art collection in Topeka. The gallery has had an African-themed collection since 1957.

The public is also invited to attend our program series called A Special Look. January’s topic is about caring for your own art. From protecting against sun damage to proper techniques for storing your family photos and scrapbooks, this demonstration explains what you can do to preserve your special collections. Registration for this Jan. 21 event is required. Call 785-580-4515. That event begins at 7pm in Marvin Auditorium 101A.