Musée Théodore Monod

The last few days have been simply living life in Senegal. We visited a lovely seaside restaurant for dinner, watching the sunset over the water and a group of local men playing football on the sand.

I shopped for groceries, dodging traffic and streetside vendors, and stopped at a local café to enjoy a cold drink and pick up more of my now-favourite biscuits.

This afternoon, my daughter and I made a trip to the Musée Théodore Monod, known for its focus on African art and the traditional music of the region. The museum is tucked into garden near a busy traffic circle - locals of all ages, especially school children, were enjoying the grounds.

Immediately upon entering the museum you are greeted by the story of the "King of the Kora",  Soundioulou Cissokho. A master griot (travelling poets, musicians and storytellers who maintain a tradition of oral history) he was part of the President of Senegal's household and travelled with him abroad.

Nearby were several examples of kora, tam-tams, tambour and calabasse to examine. Some were quite intricately carved, others plain.

Varied sculptures from different nations in Africa were displayed throughout the hall.

And the walls were lined with tapestries. This hand-embroidered piece was particularly stunning.

 

Wandering upstairs, we discovered an exhibition of photographs by Matar Ndour that brought to life the 13th century West African kingdom of this area. The costuming and use of light were stunning.

Finishing up in the main building, we were directed out the back door to the highlight of our visit. In a smaller building at the back of the garden we were welcomed into an exploration of the Senegalese value of téranga, the generosity of spirit and hospitality that is core to the local culture.

The guide welcomed us, explaining the elements of the exhibition. Everyone enters with their own story. A bowl of scent creates a welcoming sense of place. Water is kept in a large clay pot, with cups nearby, to refresh the thirsty. A mobile displays words that should be shared in ones home, and those that must always be avoided. Ceremonial clothing were carefully stored. Traditions connected generations. Teas such as wassa are provided, and meals are enjoyed together. We had a delightful time connecting with her over tea, sharing our own stories.