Water in the galaxy 

Quartz, Spray and acrylic paint, Canvas 

30in x 24 in 

2010 

Pandwe's Artistic Journey: A Fusion of Travel, Identity, and Spirituality 

Pandwe’s artistry is deeply rooted in the profound experiences and insights she gained during her travels, each moment contributing to the intricate narratives woven into her works. Her 2004 journey through Brazil was a cornerstone of her creative and spiritual evolution. As she explored the Amazon with her mother and ventured to the awe-inspiring Iguazu Falls, Pandwe immersed herself in the vibrant landscapes and rich cultures of the region. One of the most impactful stops was in Baji, where she engaged with local youth who identified as African American, despite their limited English proficiency. This interaction became a poignant lens through which she examined identity and the African diaspora, delving into the fluidity and intersections of heritage, language, and belonging. 

During her two-month sojourn in Brazil, Pandwe dedicated herself to studying the local food, art, and religion. Her time in the tropical world not only exhilarated her senses but also sparked a creative dialogue between the natural elements around her and her artistic practice. The quartz crystals she collected during her travels became more than just geological specimens; they transformed into essential components of her work, adding texture and depth to her pieces. The protruding crystals, juxtaposed against vivid layers of color, embody the heat and vitality of the tropical environment, echoing the dynamic interplay of nature and culture she experienced. 

Pandwe’s time in Brazil also marked an intersection of spiritual discovery. Drawing connections between her earlier learnings in Benin at the Temple of Voudon and her exposure to Ifa spirituality—a Yoruba tradition—she began to explore the profound relationship between indigenous faiths and their reverence for nature. This exploration continued to deepen during her subsequent travels to Cuba in 2007 with a humanitarian group, as well as her visits to Haiti and her eventual grounding in New Orleans. Through these journeys, Pandwe’s work became a challenge to the misrepresentations and demonization often placed on indigenous spiritual practices by dominant cultural narratives. Her art—fusing colors, minerals, and textures—acts as a bridge, connecting these ancient belief systems with a contemporary audience and inviting reflection on their enduring relevance. 

Ultimately, Pandwe’s creations serve as a testament to the universality of human connection to the earth and its elements. Her ability to intertwine her personal experiences with broader cultural and spiritual truths transforms her art into a vibrant celebration of identity, resilience, and the intricate beauty of shared histories.