013 Poppodium commissioned me to create the poster artwork for a concert by Vieux Farka Touré, the celebrated Malian guitarist and songwriter.
While researching the project, I became fascinated by the rich visual culture of Mali, where traditional ceremonies often feature dancers wearing masks representing animals, spirits, and deities. Although Vieux Farka Touré’s music has a contemporary sound, it remains deeply connected to traditional Malian musical heritage.
For that reason, I chose to depict the central figure wearing an antelope mask; an animal that is closely associated with West African culture and frequently appears in traditional Malian art and ceremonial practices. Flowing from the guitar are vibrant, pulsating waves of colour, visualising the energy and movement of the music itself.
What particularly struck me about Vieux Farka Touré’s work is the balance between joy and melancholy. While the rhythms are often uplifting and energetic, certain minor chords reveal a more introspective and emotional layer beneath the surface. I wanted the poster to reflect that duality, allowing it to feel both celebratory and slightly mysterious, with a dreamlike and unpredictable quality.