Cover Art by African Artists to Appear on an Upcoming Anthology Honoring Diverse Voices

In a groundbreaking collaboration that highlights the richness of African and Diaspora voices, the forthcoming anthology “Relations” is set to showcase the artwork of acclaimed visual artist Ayegbayo Damola on its cover.

Ayegbayo, known for his expressive and emotive portrayals of black African women, has been selected to contribute his unique artistic style to the visual representation of this diverse collection of stories, poems, and essays.

“Relations: Anthology of African and Diaspora Voices,” edited by Nana Ekua Brew-Hammond, is slated for release in January 2023. Published by HarperVia, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers, the anthology features a lineup of 32 talented African authors, including Arao Ameny, Conceição Lima, Makanaka Mavengere, and Vanessa Walters.

These contributors bring a wealth of experiences and perspectives to the project, exploring themes of shared humanity and interconnectedness across language, identity, class, and gender differences.

The anthology seeks to challenge conventional notions of self and otherness, aiming to bridge divides and foster understanding through storytelling. By showcasing a diverse range of voices, “Relations” provides a platform for narratives that celebrate the complexity and richness of the Black experience in a rapidly changing world.

Ayegbayo Damola, an experienced visual artist with a background in paintings and drawings, brings his unique perspective to the cover of “Relations.” His artistic style, known as ÀBÈFÉ, meaning “pleaded to be loved,” captures the essence of black African women and serves as a powerful symbol of love, strength, and resilience. Through his portraits, Ayegbayo aims to communicate messages of morals, good behavior, love, and unity, drawing inspiration from the important women in his life, including his mother and other influential figures.

Ayegbayo was born in 1988 in Ejigbo, Osun State, Nigeria. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Obafemi Awolowo University, from the Department of Fine and Applied Arts.

Ayegbayo’s selection as the cover artist for “Relations” underscores the anthology’s commitment to showcasing diverse voices and perspectives from the African continent and beyond. His artwork serves as a visual representation of the themes explored within the anthology, offering a glimpse into the depth and complexity of the stories contained within its pages.

As the editor of the anthology, Nana Ekua Brew-Hammond, a Ghanaian-American writer with a distinguished literary background, has curated a collection that reflects the diversity and vibrancy of African and Diaspora voices. Drawing on her own experiences and connections within the literary world, Brew-Hammond has brought together a talented group of writers whose work promises to challenge, inspire, and provoke thought.

“Relations” is more than just a collection of stories—it is a testament to the power of storytelling to bridge divides, foster empathy, and celebrate the shared humanity that unites us all. Through the voices of its contributors, the anthology offers a space for reflection, dialogue, and connection, inviting readers to explore the complexities of identity, culture, and community.

In a world marked by increasing diversity and interconnectedness, “Relations” stands as a beacon of hope and understanding, offering a glimpse into the myriad experiences and perspectives that make up the tapestry of human existence. By bringing together diverse voices and stories, the anthology invites readers to engage with the multiplicity of human experiences and to celebrate the beauty and resilience of the African and Diaspora communities.

With Ayegbayo’s striking artwork gracing its cover, “Relations” promises to be a visually stunning and intellectually stimulating exploration of the ties that bind us together as a global community. Through its stories, poems, and essays, the anthology invites readers to embark on a journey of discovery, empathy, and connection, reminding us of the importance of listening to and learning from the diverse voices that make up our world.

As the release date for “Relations” approaches, anticipation is growing for this groundbreaking anthology that promises to redefine our understanding of identity, community, and shared humanity. With its rich tapestry of voices and perspectives, the anthology invites readers to engage with the complexities and nuances of the African and Diaspora experience, offering a glimpse into the power of storytelling to unite us in our common humanity.