Talato Agnès Tebda, a Burkinabé artist, has been passionate about sculpture since 2018. She creates her art from recycled materials, giving them a new life and meaning. Her work focuses on the woman, her strength, and her resilience, which she believes are essential aspects of African culture. Tebda's journey as an artist began when she was a dressmaker and discovered the work of a local artisan who made paper mache sculptures.
Tebda was intrigued by the artisan's work and regularly visited his workshop to watch him create. She eventually joined him and learned the techniques of sculpture. The artisan made puppet heads, and Tebda created their outfits. Together, they worked with a puppet company, performing in schools and companies. This experience laid the foundation for Tebda's future as a sculptor.
In 2018, Tebda created her first sculpture, a bust of a woman made from a recovered pipe, as part of a project called "Moussouya" with the Goethe-Institut. This project brought together three women artists to create art pieces that celebrated women's empowerment. Tebda's sculpture was a statement about the importance of women's representation in art and society.
Tebda's work is characterized by her use of natural materials and colors. She believes that sculpture allows her to convey messages more effectively than painting. Her art often explores themes of women's strength, weakness, and commitment. Tebda also draws inspiration from Burkinabé culture, traditions, and heritage, which she aims to preserve through her art.
Despite her passion for art, Tebda faces challenges, particularly in accessing resources and funding. She has experienced periods of self-doubt and frustration when her ideas outpaced her means. However, she remains committed to her art, which she believes nourishes her spirit and soul. In 2021, Tebda received a grant of 700,000 francs CFA, which enabled her to create new art pieces that combined painting and sculpture.
Tebda's notable works include "Naam," a large sculpture that celebrates traditional chiefs and Burkinabé heritage. The piece measures 2.58 meters by 3 meters and showcases Tebda's skill and creativity. Her art has been recognized through various projects, including two sculpture sessions on granite in Lango in 2022 and 2024.
Tebda aims to leave a lasting legacy in African art, particularly in women's art. She has created "Le Petit Beaux-Arts," an association that shares artistic knowledge with young people. Tebda hopes to establish a center where artistic and craft skills can be transmitted to future generations. She advises young women who want to pursue a career in art to focus on learning, research, and determination.
Key points
- Talato Agnès Tebda uses recycled materials to create sculptures that celebrate women's strength and resilience.
- Tebda's art explores themes of women's empowerment, Burkinabé culture, and heritage.
- The artist aims to establish a center to transmit artistic and craft skills to future generations.
