Imelda Savi, a visual artist, singer, and textile creator, is a true force of creative nature. Born in Burkina-Faso, she draws endless inspiration from her African roots to shape a rich and committed artistic universe. Through her paintings, sculptures, melodies, and textile creations, she explores universal themes such as love, hope, womanhood, and identity. Let’s meet an artist whose talent and determination brighten the world with her creations.
- Artistic Journey
Please introduce yourself to our readers.
I am Imelda Ayawa Mawulawoe SAVI. Togolese, I have been an artist since childhood and have been living from it for over 10 years.
Could you tell us about your childhood and your first encounters with art?
Let’s just say I had a wonderful childhood, full of colors. My parents took my siblings and me on recreational outings and to their farm, nurturing our curiosity. At home, my father often played music, particularly classical music on the piano: lyrics or opera. As a result, I started singing as a young child at the age of 3. This is how my first contact with art began. Although I love and mostly sing opera and classical music, I also explore various music genres such as traditional Togolese music, jazz, blues, soul, etc. I perform at events such as weddings, baptisms, and parties upon request.
What drove you to become a visual artist, singer, and creator of batik and bogolan fabrics, as well as accessories?
I remember that from a young age, I would draw on any surface I could find, whether at school or home. My passion for drawing grew day by day, and I sought material and volume. I wanted my drawings to be “touchable,” hence my journey into visual arts. I began sculpting animals, humans, and abstract forms for public and private gardens. Today, I even create bas-reliefs in various countries.
For sculptures, I have created works in my country Togo, in Burkina Faso, France, and Nigeria. Most of my clients come from different parts of Africa and Europe.
As for music, my passion was nurtured by my father’s love for it.
Regarding batik and bogolan, my passion for art naturally led me to textiles. I design my own patterns on fabrics such as pagnes and t-shirts, and I also make accessories using dyed fabrics. I remember my first customers were my close friends and family. Today, my textile creations are appreciated and worn worldwide.
What have been the major influences on your artistic development?
I would say it’s the quest for a better world. The dream of deep peace that perhaps I couldn’t find pushed me to invent my own world where I could retreat. The more I searched for new images, the more I developed my artistic techniques.
Have there been any significant (positive or negative) events that have shaped your artistic journey?
Oh yes! Life has its ups and downs! But I prefer to focus on the positives. There are several. One day, a client contacted me by phone to schedule a meeting for a sculpture commission. When he arrived at our meeting place, he asked for my boss because he thought I was the one introducing clients to an imaginary boss. He apparently expected to see a man or at least a taller, more muscular woman! I confirmed that I was my own boss, and we had a good laugh once he realized the absurdity of the situation. It wasn’t an annoying prejudice, but rather a humorous moment.
How would you describe your current artistic style?
I would say I have a versatile style because I am constantly learning and pushing my curiosity into uncharted territories.
- Techniques and Inspirations
What techniques do you most often use in your artistic work?
For visual arts, I use several techniques, the most common being assemblage, mixing, or recycling. For music, it’s mastering the breath. For textiles, I use dyeing and drawing.
Where do you draw inspiration for your creations?
From life! From my experiences and those around me, from nature, and sometimes from my dreams.
What are the recurring themes in your work?
Women, hope, courage, perseverance, nature, humanity, and spirituality.
How do your Togolese culture and identity influence your art?
Born to a Burkinabé mother and a Togolese father, my art is a blend of these two cultures. It is genuine and authentic. I infuse it with my DNA.
What messages do you hope to convey through your creations?
That it is possible to have a more beautiful world!
Is your art sometimes socially engaged?
Of course! As I mentioned earlier, women are an integral part of my themes. This is inevitable since I am first a woman and then an artist. I address issues such as violence against women and children, neglected orphans, and the abandonment of the elderly. These are my commitments.
- Creative Process
Can you describe your typical creative process?
Everything starts with a vision of what you want to create—visualizing the work itself. Then, considering the time and space, I gather the tools or materials to be used and finally execute the piece.
Are there any particular challenges you face as a female artist?
As a female artist, especially a sculptor, people are often curious to see my work. This sometimes creates pressure because I have to work harder to prove that women are capable. I would also mention the physical and psychological energy required to create works of art in all my fields of work.
How do you overcome these challenges?
I keep my goal in mind and don’t allow myself to be shaken. I roll up my sleeves and keep working. Having a clear vision and a determined mindset are my tools.
How do you manage the balance between your artistic life and your personal life?
(Laughs…) I have only one life. I am an artist, so how can I separate myself from myself? Seriously though, it requires a schedule to manage everything well.
How do you handle prejudice or inappropriate requests in your industry, and how do you navigate these obstacles to keep creating?
You just need to stay focused on the goal you’ve set for yourself, work toward it, and avoid shortcuts. Only hard work pays off. You must remain dignified, stand firm in your principles, and dispel prejudices with your talent.
- Impact and Recognition
How has your art impacted your life and the lives of others? Do you use your art to create change?
Yes, my art has positively impacted my life by giving meaning to my existence and has touched others through the messages I convey. My art serves as a voice for the voiceless, a boost for women who are marginalized, the oppressed, orphans, and many others.
Have you received any awards or recognition for your work?
No, but I have received precious gifts—smiles, bright eyes, warm handshakes, satisfied people who have been transformed by the impact of my work. These are worth more than any official award.
How do you perceive the current Togolese art scene?
It is filled with young talents waiting to be discovered. We have treasures to be unearthed, and I am proud of the progress of the Togolese art sphere.
What are your future projects and aspirations?
In the future, I want to restore the cultural identity of our regions, which has been somewhat lost with the influence of social media. In achieving this project, I focus more on children because they are the future. I also hope to create jobs through my art.
Is there anything you would like to share with the public and African women about your art, life, or worldview?
No matter what career you choose, do it well. I especially want to tell my younger sisters that they are their own resources for success. There is no book that assigns one job to men and another to women, so don’t limit yourself.
Your final words.
I thank you so much for your interest in me.
Imelda Savi, thank you very much for sharing your time and thoughts with L’Africaine. Your passion for art and your commitment to creating meaningful work are truly inspiring. L’Africaine is confident that your work will continue to touch and inspire people, especially African women, for many years to come.
We wish you all the best in your future projects. May your art continue to flourish and spread beauty and inspiration in the world!
Contact her at +228 91578046.