Save to List: Triston Brewer’s Cape Verde
A world’s worth of recommended spots from our global community
words – triston brewer
location – new york city, new york
Saudade is a Cape Verdean word that represents an emotional depth seen throughout the nation’s art and symbolises the spirit of the people. Their art celebrates the country’s heritage while making a powerful statement of independence and self-determination.
Nestled just off the coast of Senegal, Cape Verde is an archipelago composed of ten volcanic islands that encompass a complex, yet intriguing, history. In the 1400s, Portuguese settlers turned the islands into a trading post where enslaved people would be taken from West Africa and trafficked to Europe and the Americas. After winning its independence from Portugal in 1975, Cape Verdean artists started producing works celebrating their newly won sovereignty. Today, as the growing influence and control of foreign powers threatens to dilute the unique identity of the archipelago, many artists are still fighting to preserve their cultural autonomy.
Economic disparities, limited access to resources and systemic inequalities often impede the growth and recognition of local talent. However, amongst this, Cape Verde’s art and artists provide insight into a world deeply intertwined with global currents yet fiercely protective of its unique cultural legacy. Below is a list of music venues, galleries and art spaces that are protecting the soul of Cape Verde while also inspiring a collective sense of pride and resilience among its citizens and diaspora.
01_The National Centre for the Promotion of Art, Crafts, and Design [CNAD]
Recognised as the artistic soul of the country, Mindelo is home to the National Centre for the Promotion of Art, Crafts and Design [CNAD], which serves as a dynamic hub for Cape Verdean culture and creativity. Visitors to the island of São Vicente can experience year-round displays of prominent and emerging artists, making it a major attraction for those eager to experience the artistic soul of the nation.
02_Tchalé casa Figueira
“I absolutely refuse to be pigeonholed. I am the island of my irreverence. I am originally from this planet, I was born geographically on certain islands close to the African continent, I am a painter. Period.” – Tchalé Figueira
Tchalé Figueira is one of the country’s most prominent artists. Known for addressing socio-political issues through his work as a painter, poet and musician, Figueira’s career began in Switzerland at the School of Artistic Design in Basel, and his painting exhibitions have been shown around the globe. Since returning to São Vicente, he has established an art studio and continues to be a vocal critic about the current state of Cape Verde, tapping into issues of post-colonial identity, economic inequality and the preservation of cultural heritage.
03_Kriol Jazz Festival
Held each year in the capital city of Praia, the festival unites local and international artists in a celebration of Cape Verdean music and culture. The festival’s lineup showcases a diverse array of performers as well as genres, offering a platform for Black artists to share their creativity with an international audience.
04_Mindelo Carnival
While Carnival is celebrated across all the islands, it reaches its peak in Mindelo. On São Vicente Island, it stands as a vibrant testament to Cape Verdean culture and tradition. With its bustling parades, engaging music and lively dance performances, the streets are brimming with both locals and tourists alike, all eager to soak in the creativity and community spirit.
05_Mindelact
Based in Mindelo, this theatre association is recognised as a cornerstone of Cape Verdean cultural heritage. Throughout the year, it unites theatre groups from Cape Verde and across the globe for performances, workshops and cultural exchanges.
06_Festival Internacional de Música da Praia [FIM-P]
The annual music festival held in Praia boasts a diverse array of performers, covering everything from traditional Cape Verdean music to contemporary styles that merge distinct elements from other popular genres.
07_Festival de Gamboa
In May, the small village of Gamboa of Santiago Island comes alive with a vibrant celebration of the region’s music, dance and culture. As one of the city’s premier events, it attracts both national and international artists and continues to maintain a loyal following.
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