To the Beat of the Drum

African dance and African drums are intricately connected and often go hand in hand. They are both essential components of traditional African music and cultural expression. In many African cultures, dance, and drumming are deeply intertwined and are integral parts of various ceremonies, rituals, celebrations, and everyday life.

African dance is a form of artistic expression that reflects the rich cultural heritage of different African ethnic groups. It incorporates a wide range of movements, gestures, and rhythms that convey specific meanings, tells stories, and express emotions. Dance in African cultures is often characterized by energetic footwork, rhythmic body movements, intricate choreography, and vibrant costumes.

African drums, on the other hand, play a central role in providing the rhythmic foundation for African music and dance. Drums in African cultures come in various shapes and sizes, such as djembes, talking drums, dunun, and many others. Each type of drum produces distinct sounds and is used for specific purposes. The drumming serves as a means of communication, conveying messages, and transmitting cultural traditions through rhythm and beats.

This open edition release by Poncho explores this connection and depicts two African dancers and one African drummer connecting spiritually and rhythmically as they express themselves, celebrate the past and present, and give honor to the ancestors.

This work of art was originally commissioned and created in 2004 for the UMOJA African Arts Company to commemorate the 1st Annual African Arts In The Park Festival of Pittsburgh, PA.

The UMOJA African Arts Company is a performing arts organization dedicated to promoting and preserving African culture through various artistic disciplines. The company's name, "UMOJA," is a Swahili word meaning "unity" and reflects their commitment to celebrating the diversity and richness of African heritage.

UMOJA African Arts Company was founded in 1997 by Jackie Gaskin, a dancer and choreographer from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States. The company is based in Philadelphia but has performed internationally, sharing African arts and culture with audiences around the world.

The company specializes in African dance, music, drumming, storytelling, and other forms of traditional African performance arts.