Senegal’s rich store of artistic talent will get a new outlet in February, when the country’s first ever Words and Pictures (WaPi) event will be held.

WaPi is a British Council initiative that gives underground artists the opportunity to show their skills to the public at no cost. These artists range from graffiti writers to animators, cartoonists, painters, singers, rappers, fashion designers, bead makers, crafters and musicians.

WaPi was piloted in Nairobi, Kenya two years ago and now runs in Ghana, Uganda, Nigeria, Tanzania and Senegal.

Project delivery manager Nene Ba Ka hopes that this WaPi event will mark a turning point in the lives of Senegalese underground artists.

‘We are really excited at the office because it’s something that has never happened in Senegal,’ she says. ‘People are talking about WaPi all over town and I hope that it will be a great event.’

Ba Ka says that the British Council is uncovering hidden talent in Senegal.

‘We are aware that talent exists, but there is no platform for these artists to show what they can do. With WaPi we are giving them an opportunity to be professional and be seen.’

The British Council will host WaPi events every two months. Unlike other countries’ events, they won’t have any themes.

‘We have already secured sponsorship with a telephone company called Orange. They will be giving those who excel at WaPi some prizes,’ Ba Ka says.

The British Council Senegal is exploring different ways of rewarding WaPi participants, but the platform itself is the best benefit, says Ba Ka. Artists also acquire basic business skills through the experience.

For her, being part of WaPi is a privilege. ‘It gives me great honour to be contributing to the growth of young artists and talent. Senegal is a country with a rich art scene.’

WaPi was held on 28 February at the British Council offices in Senegal. To find out more about this WaPi event contact Corina Fiora.

To read more about British Council events and programmes, please visit this page. Read our latest news here: News in Africa section.