Heroes

Heroes: Principles of African Greatness is a multi-layered project that relays the stories of the key heroic principles and people in Africa’s arts and history, and considers the core values of leadership – justice, integrity, generosity and empathy. Each artwork in Heroes is paired with a historic African person, a “hero in history,” who embodies the thematic value featured in the selected work. Showing nearly 50 artworks from more than 40 artists, the book is designed in an aesthetic reminiscent of a graphic novel or superhero comic book. With multiple paths and points of entry, it encourages readers to explore, consider and make their own connections. In addition, author Kevin Dumouchelle has included reference information, and offers his reflections on related songs from a curated playlist. An essay weaves together a brief discussion of the project’s goals and grounding. Find your own way in this spirited cosmos full of surprises and values!