The Hygienic Art is seeking support for a cultural research and apprenticeship project involving two resident artists, Aliyah Lacombe and Ariel Miner. The artists will travel to Ibadan, Nigeria, to study for two weeks under Lukman Àlàdé Fákéye, a sixth-generation traditional Yoruba woodcarving master.

During the apprenticeship, they will receive hands-on instruction in traditional woodcarving techniques while also studying the cultural and historical significance of the craft. Upon their return, they will share what they learned through free community workshops and a public exhibition. The materials and artworks exhibited will reflect the research, cultural insight, and skills developed during the trip. Their goal is to preserve the cultural knowledge of an endangered craft, foster cross-cultural learning, and create new opportunities for community education and programming in Connecticut.

Some of the costs for this trip and the related community events may be covered by funding from various humanities organizations. However, Aliyah and Ariel are requesting additional support to help cover the remaining expenses, including accommodation, meals, visa applications, and immunizations.

We would greatly appreciate your support, and we look forward to seeing you at the upcoming workshops and exhibition!

All contributions are collected and managed by Hygienic Art Inc.

Included are photos of Lukman, Ariel, Aliyah, and samples of their artwork.

Ariel's Work:

Aliyah's Work:

Lukman's Work: