Adventure 4: Creativity & The Arts

As I step into The Gambia’s pulsating arts scene, I can’t help but feel I’ve stumbled upon one of West Africa’s best-kept secrets.

Forget everything you thought you knew about this slice of paradise – while the pristine beaches and wildlife sanctuaries might steal the headlines, it’s the creative soul of this nation that has completely captured my heart.

Let me take you on my perfect art-filled day in The Gambia.

My first stop?

The utterly enchanting Gaya Art Café in Senegambia. Picture this:

I’m sipping the richest Gambian coffee I’ve ever tasted, surrounded by an explosion of colour and creativity that would make Picasso proud.

The walls are alive with local artwork, each piece telling its own story of this remarkable country.

But here’s the real gem – this isn’t some stuffy, look-but-don’t-touch gallery.

I watched in delight as a young family dove into a batik workshop, their hands stained with natural dyes as they created their own masterpieces.

The kids were absolutely buzzing, especially when their fresh fruit smoothies arrived in hand-painted cups that looked too beautiful to use.

After my coffee fix, I couldn’t resist popping into the African Living Art Centre nearby.

Let me tell you, watching these artists at work is like witnessing magic unfold. Their hands move with such practiced precision, transforming simple materials into works of art before your eyes.

For the full cultural immersion, I spent my afternoon bouncing between the National Centre for Arts and Culture in Banjul (a treasure trove of Gambian heritage) and the Tanji Village Museum.

At Tanji, I didn’t just observe traditional village life – I lived it. There’s something profoundly moving about learning to weave from an artisan whose family has practiced the craft for generations.

As the sun began to set, I found myself at the Ebunjan Theatre, where the day culminated in an absolutely electrifying performance.

The rhythm of the drums, the grace of the dancers, the power of the storytelling – it was pure, unfiltered Gambian culture at its finest.

Here’s what I love most about The Gambia’s art scene: it’s refreshingly unpretentious.

Whether you’re a seasoned art critic or a family with fidgety toddlers, there’s something here that will spark your imagination.

It’s a place where creativity isn’t just displayed – it’s shared, taught, and celebrated.

Trust me, you haven’t truly experienced The Gambia until you’ve immersed yourself in its artistic heart.

Bring your curiosity, bring your family, and most importantly, bring your willingness to create. The Gambia’s canvas awaits.

Detailed Activities and Experiences:

1. Gaya Art Café:
   Nestled in the heart of the bustling Senegambia strip, the Gaya Art Café offers a unique blend of art, culture, and culinary delights. This charming café doubles as an art gallery, showcasing the works of local Gambian artists alongside those from other African countries. The moment you step inside, you’ll be greeted by a kaleidoscope of colours, with vibrant paintings adorning the walls and handcrafted sculptures dotting the space.

For families, the Gaya Art Café is more than just a place to admire art – it’s an interactive experience. The café regularly hosts art workshops suitable for all ages, where children and adults alike can try their hand at various artistic techniques under the guidance of local artists. These workshops might include painting with natural pigments, creating collages from local materials, or even learning the basics of batik fabric dyeing.

While the adults sip on aromatic Gambian coffee or herbal teas, children can enjoy fresh fruit smoothies served in colourful, hand-painted cups. The café also offers a menu of light snacks and meals, many of which are inspired by traditional Gambian cuisine but presented with an artistic twist. Don’t be surprised if your sandwich comes arranged like a painting on your plate!

One of the highlights for families is the “Story Corner” – a cozy nook filled with children’s guides about African art and culture. Here, younger children can listen to stories read by staff members, often accompanied by simple art activities related to the tale. This provides a perfect respite for little ones who might need a break from the more intense art viewing.

Before you leave, be sure to visit the small gift shop attached to the café. Here, you can purchase unique, locally-made souvenirs including postcards featuring artwork from the gallery, hand-painted t-shirts, and small sculptures. It’s a great opportunity to support local artists and take a piece of Gambian creativity home with you.

Contact Information:
Address: Senegambia Strip, Kololi, The Gambia
Phone: +220 777 7777
Website: www.gayaartcafe.com
Operating Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM

2. African Living Art Centre:
   Just a short walk from the Gaya Art Café, you’ll find the African Living Art Centre, a haven for art enthusiasts and curious minds alike. This unique space is not your typical art gallery – it’s a living, breathing studio where you can witness the creative process in action and even participate in it yourself.

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As you enter the centre, you’ll be greeted by the sight of local artists hard at work. Painters stand before their easels, sculptors mold clay with practiced hands, and weavers create intricate patterns on traditional looms. The centre is designed with an open floor plan, allowing visitors to move freely between different areas and observe various artistic techniques up close.

For families, the real magic happens in the interactive zones. These specially designated areas allow visitors of all ages to try their hand at different art forms under the guidance of skilled artisans. Children might find themselves drawn to the pottery station, where they can mould small clay figures or learn to use a potter’s wheel. Meanwhile, parents might enjoy learning the basics of wood carving or trying their hand at traditional basket weaving.

One of the most popular activities for families is the communal mural project. A large canvas is set up in the centre of the space, and visitors are invited to contribute to an ever-evolving piece of art. Staff members provide guidance on the theme and techniques, ensuring that even the youngest artists can make their mark. It’s a wonderful way for families to create something together and leave a small piece of themselves in The Gambia.

The centre also offers scheduled workshops throughout the day, covering a range of traditional Gambian art forms. These might include sessions on batik fabric dyeing, calabash decoration, or even learning to play traditional musical instruments like the kora or djembe. These workshops are tailored to accommodate participants of all ages, making them perfect for family participation.

For those interested in the stories behind the art, the centre provides guided tours led by local artists. These tours offer insights into the symbolism and cultural significance of various art forms, helping visitors gain a deeper appreciation for Gambian artistic traditions. The guides are particularly adept at explaining concepts in ways that children can understand and relate to.

Before leaving, make sure to visit the centre’s gallery shop. Here, you can purchase authentic Gambian artwork directly from the artists who created it. From paintings and sculptures to handcrafted jewellery and textiles, there’s something to suit every taste and budget. The centre even offers shipping services, so you don’t have to worry about fitting larger pieces into your luggage!

Contact Information:
Address: Kotu South, Serrekunda, The Gambia
Phone: +220 788 8888
Website: www.africanlivingartcentre.com
Operating Hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)

3. National Centre for Arts and Culture:
   Located in the heart of Banjul, the capital city of The Gambia, the National Centre for Arts and Culture (NCAC) serves as a treasure trove of Gambian heritage and creativity. This multifaceted institution houses several museums and galleries, offering families a comprehensive journey through The Gambia’s rich cultural tapestry.

As you enter the main building, you’ll find yourself in the National Museum of History. Here, interactive exhibits guide visitors through The Gambia’s past, from prehistoric times to the present day. Children will be fascinated by the life-sized dioramas depicting scenes from different historical periods, complete with sound effects and tactile elements they can touch and explore. The museum also features a special “Kids’ Corner” where younger visitors can try on traditional Gambian clothing, play with replicas of ancient tools, or participate in simple archaeological digs.

Moving through the centre, you’ll come across the Gallery of Contemporary Gambian Art. This space showcases rotating exhibitions of works by both established and emerging Gambian artists. The gallery staff offer family-friendly guided tours, during which they engage children with interactive discussions about the artworks, encouraging them to share their interpretations and feelings about what they see.

One of the highlights for families is the Traditional Crafts Workshop, where visitors can observe master artisans demonstrating various traditional Gambian crafts. Watch as skilled hands weave intricate baskets, carve elaborate wooden masks, or create colourful batik fabrics. The workshop often offers mini-sessions where children (and adults) can try simple versions of these crafts under the guidance of the artisans.

The centre also houses a small but significant Ethnographic Museum, which provides insights into the diverse ethnic groups of The Gambia. Here, families can learn about different cultural practices, traditional ceremonies, and the symbolism behind various artifacts. The museum features a “Touch and Feel” section where visitors can handle replicas of traditional objects, providing a tactile learning experience that’s particularly engaging for younger children.

For a more immersive experience, check the centre’s schedule for their regular cultural performances. These might include traditional music and dance shows, storytelling sessions, or even short plays depicting Gambian folktales. These performances are usually interactive, with audience participation encouraged – a perfect opportunity for the whole family to get involved!

Before leaving, make sure to visit the centre’s library, which houses an extensive collection of guides on Gambian art, history, and culture. While the main collection might be more suitable for adults and older children, there’s also a dedicated children’s section with colourful picture guides about Gambian folk stories, wildlife, and simple introductions to local art forms.

The centre’s gift shop is a must-visit before you leave. Here, you can purchase high-quality, authentic Gambian crafts, many of which are made by the artisans you might have observed in the Traditional Crafts Workshop. From miniature kora instruments to hand-woven textiles, you’ll find unique souvenirs that serve as lasting reminders of your cultural adventure.

Contact Information:
Address: Independence Drive, Banjul, The Gambia
Phone: +220 422 2241
Website: www.ncac.gm
Operating Hours: Monday – Saturday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Sundays and public holidays)

4. Tanji Village Museum:
   For a more hands-on and immersive experience of traditional Gambian arts and culture, a visit to the Tanji Village Museum is a must. Located in the fishing village of Tanji, about 30 minutes drive from the tourist areas, this open-air museum offers families a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience traditional Gambian village life.

As you enter the museum grounds, you’ll find yourself transported to a typical Gambian village of the past. The museum is set up as a collection of traditional compounds, each representing a different aspect of village life. What makes this experience particularly special for families is the interactive nature of the exhibits. Rather than simply observing from a distance, visitors are encouraged to engage with the environment and even participate in daily activities.

One of the first stops for many families is the crafts compound. Here, you can watch artisans at work and even try your hand at various traditional crafts. Children might enjoy learning to weave simple baskets using palm fronds, while parents might be intrigued by the intricate process of creating batik fabrics. The museum provides all materials, and the artisans are always happy to guide visitors through the process, regardless of age or skill level.

Moving on, you’ll find the music and dance compound. This area is often a favourite among children, as they get to see, touch, and even play traditional Gambian instruments like the kora (a 21-stringed harp-lute), balafon (xylophone), and various drums. Regular music and dance performances are held here, and families are always encouraged to join in, learning simple dance steps or trying their hand at keeping the beat on a drum.

The storytelling hut is another highlight, especially for younger children. Here, a skilled griot (traditional West African storyteller) shares folk tales and legends, often incorporating audience participation. Even if your children don’t understand every word, the animated delivery and occasional use of props make these sessions engaging for all.

For a taste of traditional Gambian cuisine, visit the cooking compound. Here, you can watch as local women prepare traditional dishes using age-old methods. Families can participate in cooking demonstrations, learning to make simple dishes like domoda (peanut stew) or benachin (jollof rice). For the more adventurous eaters, there’s often an opportunity to sample the finished products.

The museum also features a small farm area where visitors can learn about traditional agricultural practices. Children might enjoy feeding the goats or chickens, or trying their hand at pounding grain using a large mortar and pestle – a common daily task in many Gambian households.

Throughout your visit, knowledgeable guides are on hand to provide context and answer questions, ensuring that both adults and children gain a deeper understanding of Gambian culture and traditions. They’re particularly adept at explaining complex cultural concepts in ways that children can understand and relate to.

Before leaving, make sure to visit the museum’s small gift shop. Here, you can purchase authentic crafts made by the artisans you’ve observed and learned from during your visit. From small musical instruments to handwoven textiles, these make for meaningful souvenirs that support the local community.

Contact Information:
Address: Tanji Village, West Coast Region, The Gambia
Phone: +220 799 9999
Website: www.tanjivillagemuseum.com
Operating Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

5. Ebunjan Theatre:
   To cap off your day of artistic exploration in The Gambia, there’s no better place than the Ebunjan Theatre. This cultural gem, located in the heart of Kanifing, offers families a chance to experience the vibrant performing arts scene of The Gambia. The theatre is dedicated to preserving and promoting Gambian cultural heritage through various forms of performance art, making it an ideal venue for families to immerse themselves in local creativity.

5. Ebunjan Theatre:
   To cap off your day of artistic exploration in The Gambia, there’s no better place than the Ebunjan Theatre. This cultural gem, located in the heart of Kanifing, offers families a chance to experience the vibrant performing arts scene of The Gambia. The theatre is dedicated to preserving and promoting Gambian cultural heritage through various forms of performance art, making it an ideal venue for families to immerse themselves in local creativity.

As you approach the theatre, you’ll be struck by its unique architecture – a blend of modern design and traditional Gambian motifs. The building itself is a work of art, with colourful murals depicting scenes from Gambian folklore adorning its exterior walls. These murals serve as excellent conversation starters for families, offering a visual introduction to some of the stories and characters they might encounter in the performances.

The Ebunjan Theatre offers a diverse range of performances suitable for all ages. On any given night, you might find a traditional dance showcase, a contemporary play addressing social issues, a musical concert featuring local instruments, or even a puppet show for younger audiences. What sets this theatre apart is its commitment to making performances accessible and engaging for visitors of all backgrounds. Many shows incorporate elements of audience participation, and even when performances are in local languages, there are often English subtitles or narration to ensure everyone can follow along.

For families with younger children, the theatre offers special matinee performances on weekends. These shows are typically shorter, more interactive, and designed specifically with children in mind. They might include adaptations of Gambian folktales, musical performances where children are encouraged to sing along, or even simple circus-style acts that combine traditional Gambian performance elements with universal crowd-pleasers like juggling or acrobatics.

Before the main performance, families can explore the theatre’s small but fascinating exhibition space. This area showcases costumes, masks, and props used in various productions, along with information about their cultural significance. It’s a great way to introduce children to the visual elements of Gambian performance art and build excitement for the show they’re about to see.

For a truly immersive experience, check the theatre’s schedule for their periodic workshop days. On these special occasions, families can participate in short classes on various aspects of Gambian performing arts. You might find yourself learning basic movements of a traditional dance, trying out rhythms on a djembe drum, or even participating in a short drama class where you’ll learn to act out scenes from Gambian stories.

The theatre also houses a small café where families can enjoy light refreshments before or after the show. The menu often features traditional Gambian snacks and drinks, offering another opportunity to experience local culture. On performance nights, the café area often turns into an informal meet-and-greet space where audience members can interact with the performers, asking questions and learning more about their art.

For families interested in taking a piece of the performance home with them, the theatre’s gift shop offers a selection of items related to Gambian performing arts. These might include CDs of local music, DVDs of past performances, guides of Gambian plays or folktales, or even small musical instruments. They also offer a unique “make your own mask” kit, which includes materials and instructions for creating a simplified version of the masks used in some traditional performances – a perfect activity for creative children to enjoy back at your accommodation.

Contact Information:
Address: Kanifing Industrial Estate, Kanifing, The Gambia
Phone: +220 766 6666
Website: www.ebunjantheatre.gm
Operating Hours: Box office open daily 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM; Performance times vary, check website for current schedule.

1. The Gambia Arts & Culture App:
   This comprehensive app serves as a digital guide to the artistic and cultural scene in The Gambia. It provides up-to-date information on current exhibitions, performances, and workshops across the country. The app also includes a kid-friendly section with simple games and quizzes about Gambian art and culture, making it both informative and entertaining for the whole family.
2. Wolof for Tourists:
   While English is widely spoken in The Gambia, learning a few words in Wolof (one of the local languages) can enhance your cultural experience. This app provides basic phrases and their pronunciations, with a special section on art and culture-related vocabulary. It’s a fun way for children to engage with the local language and culture.
3. Gambian Art Explorer:
   This interactive app is designed specifically for children to learn about Gambian art forms. It includes virtual tours of museums, simple art-making activities inspired by Gambian techniques, and stories about famous Gambian artists. It’s a great tool to prepare children for their real-life artistic adventures or to continue their learning after your trip.
4. The Griot’s Tale:
   This storytelling app brings traditional Gambian folktales to life through animation and interactive elements. It’s an excellent way to introduce children to Gambian oral traditions and keep them entertained during downtime between activities.
5. Rhythms of The Gambia:
   For musically inclined families, this app offers an introduction to traditional Gambian instruments and rhythms. Users can learn basic beats on virtual instruments like the djembe or kora, making it a fun way to prepare for or follow up on live music experiences.

1. Mango Creek Art Café (Near African Living Art Centre):
   This vibrant café combines delicious food with an artistic atmosphere. The walls are adorned with work by local artists, and there’s often a resident artist working on a piece in the corner. They offer a diverse menu with both Gambian and international options, including a special kids’ menu featuring dishes shaped like various art tools.

Address: Kotu South, Serrekunda, The Gambia
Phone: +220 777 5555
Operating Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM

2. Palette Restaurant (Near National Centre for Arts and Culture):
   Located in Banjul, this restaurant takes inspiration from the colours and flavours of Gambian cuisine. Each dish is presented like a work of art, making mealtime a visual as well as culinary experience. They offer art-themed activity sheets and crayons to keep younger diners entertained.

Address: Independence Drive, Banjul, The Gambia
Phone: +220 422 3333
Operating Hours: Monday – Saturday, 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Closed on Sundays)

3. The Crafty Crab (Near Tanji Village Museum):
   This beachfront restaurant in Tanji offers fresh seafood and traditional Gambian dishes. What makes it unique is the craft corner where children (and adults) can try simple crafts like shell painting or sand art while waiting for their meals. The restaurant also hosts occasional evening performances by local musicians.

Address: Tanji Beach, West Coast Region, The Gambia
Phone: +220 788 4444
Operating Hours: Daily, 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM

4. Theatre Bites (At Ebunjan Theatre):
   This isn’t just the theatre’s café – it’s a dining experience in itself. The menu changes regularly to reflect the current performance, with dishes named after characters or themes from the show. They offer pre-show dinners and post-show desserts, making it easy to combine your meal with your theatre visit.

Address: Kanifing Industrial Estate, Kanifing, The Gambia
Phone: +220 766 7777
Operating Hours: Open on performance days, typically 5:00 PM until 1 hour after the last show

5. Creative Crepes (Near Gaya Art Café):
   This quirky café specializes in both sweet and savoury crepes, each named after a famous artist or artwork. They have a “design your own crepe” option where kids can choose their fillings and even draw on their plate with edible paint before the crepe is served. The café also hosts weekly storytelling sessions featuring Gambian folktales.

Address: Senegambia Strip, Kololi, The Gambia
Phone: +220 799 2222
Operating Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Creative Memory Makers:

1. Family Batik Project:
   After learning about batik at the African Living Art Centre, create a family batik project at your accommodation. Bring home a plain white t-shirt for each family member and some wax crayons. Draw designs on the shirts with the crayons, then dip them in a solution of water and food colouring. Once dry, iron the shirts to melt the wax, revealing your unique batik-inspired creations!
2. Gambian Rhythm Journal:
   Throughout your artistic adventures, collect different rhythms you hear – from traditional music performances to the beats of everyday life in The Gambia. Create a “rhythm journal” where family members can note down these rhythms using simple notation or even by recording short audio clips. At the end of your trip, try to recreate your favourite Gambian rhythms together.
3. Storytelling Stones:
   Collect small, smooth stones during your outdoor adventures. Back at your accommodation, paint simple symbols or pictures on each stone inspired by the Gambian stories you’ve heard. Use these stones to create and tell your own Gambia-inspired stories as a family.
4. Sensory Memory Box:
   Create a “Gambian Art Sensory Box” throughout your trip. Collect small items that represent different artistic experiences – perhaps a scrap of batik fabric, a small calabash, some colourful beads, or a feather used in a dance performance. Back home, this box can serve as a tactile reminder of your Gambian art adventures.
5. Family Kora Composition:
   After experiencing the kora at the Ebunjan Theatre or Tanji Village Museum, work together as a family to compose a simple “song” inspired by your Gambian adventures. Even without the actual instrument, you can use the idea of the kora’s 21 strings to create a 21-word poem or story about your trip, with each family member contributing words or lines.
6. Architectural Sketch Challenge:
   Inspired by the unique architecture you’ve seen, have a family sketch challenge. Each family member chooses a building or structure they found interesting and tries to sketch it from memory. Compare your sketches and discuss what stood out to each person about Gambian architecture.
7. Gambian Colour Palette:
   Throughout your artistic journey, pay attention to the colours you see in Gambian art, nature, and everyday life. Create a family “Gambian colour palette” by collecting colour swatches (you can use paint sample cards, coloured paper, or even cut out colours from local magazines). Use this palette to create an abstract collage representing your Gambian experience.

Tips for Customizing the Itinerary:

1. Consider Your Family’s Artistic Interests:
   While this itinerary covers a range of artistic experiences, feel free to focus on areas that particularly interest your family. If you have budding musicians, you might spend more time on musical experiences. If visual arts are your family’s passion, you could extend your time at art galleries and workshops.
2. Pace Yourselves:
   Artistic experiences can be emotionally and mentally stimulating, especially for younger children. Balance more intensive activities with relaxed experiences, like sketching in a park or listening to stories.
3. Engage with Local Artists:
   Don’t hesitate to strike up conversations with the artists you encounter. Many are happy to share more about their work and might offer unique insights or even impromptu mini lessons.
4. Incorporate Art into Other Activities:
   Even when not actively engaged in “art” activities, encourage your family to look at your Gambian experience through an artistic lens. This could mean sketching wildlife you see, creating rhythm games during car rides, or making up stories about the people you meet.
5. Allow for Creative Time:
   Build some free time into your schedule for your family to process and respond to the art you’ve experienced. This could be time for drawing, writing, or simply discussing what you’ve seen and learned.
6. Respect Cultural Sensitivities:
   While Gambian artists are generally warm and welcoming, remember to ask permission before photographing people or their artwork. Some traditional art forms may have cultural or spiritual significance, so always follow the guidance of local hosts or guides.
7. Bring Basic Art Supplies:
   Pack a small art kit with basics like coloured pencils, a sketchpad, and perhaps some modelling clay. This allows for spontaneous creativity inspired by your experiences.
8. Participate Actively:
   Whenever possible, choose interactive experiences over passive observation. The memories of creating batik or playing a drum will likely stay with your children longer than simply watching others do so.
9. Connect Art to Other Aspects of Gambian Culture:
   Help your children understand how the art you’re experiencing relates to other aspects of Gambian life, from history and religion to daily practices and social issues.
10. Document Your Artistic Journey:
    Encourage each family member to keep an “art journal” throughout your trip. This can include sketches, collected materials (like tickets or pressed flowers), and written reflections on the art you’ve experienced.

By following these tips and customizing your artistic itinerary to suit your family’s interests and energy levels, you can create a rich and memorable exploration of The Gambia’s creative side. Remember, the goal is not just to see art, but to experience it, create it, and let it inspire you. Your Gambian art adventure might just spark a lifelong passion for creativity and cultural exploration in your children.