West African Cultural Arts Institute (WACAI) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit cultural arts organization based in Eugene, Oregon. WACAI’s mission is to share the joy and passion of Guinean culture through vibrant educational programs focusing on music and dance. These programs include drum and dance classes, school residencies and assemblies, performances, and other community outreach events.
West African Cultural Arts Institute was founded in February 2007 by Alseny Yansane and Andrea DiPalma Yansane when they relocated from Guinea to the United States. Committed and passionate about the cultural arts of Guinea, Alseny and Andrea formed this organization to give back to communities in West Africa as well as to connect with western students far and wide to teach about the transformational power of authentic Guinean dance, music and culture.
WACAI’s board of directors and volunteers are made up of past and present students who have been deeply touched by WACAI’s programs and are dedicated to making them accessible to expansive audiences.
A series designed to put a spotlight on seven Black cultural artists throughout the state of Oregon to elevate their work and discuss how racism affects their lives.
Papa talked about the freedom that he experienced while living in Guinea.
LaRhonda Steele (Portland) is a gospel singer and songwriter recognized as one the region’s best rhythm and blues vocalists.
A series designed to put a spotlight on seven Black cultural artists throughout the state of Oregon to elevate their work and discuss how racism affects their lives.
Read MorePapa talked about the freedom that he experienced while living in Guinea.
Read MoreLaRhonda Steele (Portland) is a gospel singer and songwriter recognized as one the region’s best rhythm and blues vocalists.
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Wambui Machua is a traditional Kenyan chef, entrepreneur, and owner of Spice of Africa, a Portland-based African restaurant.
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To listen to Mic Crenshaw (Portland Oregon) perform is to be drawn deeply into a poetics of Truth in action.
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Norman “The Boogie Cat” Sylvester (Portland) has aptly described himself as being “totally dedicated to the soul healing force of music” and when watching or listening to him, this is self-evident.
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As the first installment of the Oregon Black Artist Spotlight Series, WACAI’s Executive Director, Andrea DiPalma Yansane had the privilege to interview Baba Wague Diakite.
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WACAI was stationed at a wonderful shady spot just on the edge of a fabulous Filbert grove and enjoyed performing in this unique style which was a creative solution to holding the celebration in the midst of a global pandemic.
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Polaris Dance Theatre held its 10th Annual Galaxy Dance Festival this weekend and in response to the social distancing regulations that are in place, went VIRTUAL!
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N'Gawa whose name means "Mother Hawa" in the Susu language is, Alseny Yansane, our Co-founder and Artistic Director's Mom. She passed away on Wednesday, June 17th at 1 pm Conakry time.
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Throughout Oregon, the United States, and all over the world there have been massive protests, rallies, and demonstrations. We at WACAI believe in and affirm that all Black Lives Matter.
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Support WACAI's mission to strengthen and support the cultural arts of West Africa through arts education and charitable projects in Guinea!
West African Cultural Arts Institute is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization who relies on the financial, in-kind and volunteer support of individuals, businesses and agencies. Our vibrant programs keep the cultural arts of West Africa authentic and alive and improves the lives of many communities in Guinea.
Please consider making a tax-deductible donation to West African Cultural Arts Institute.