SONG OF THE MEDICINE MAN (2023)
“Song of the Medicine Man" (approx 40mins) is a multichannel video work by Zina Saro-Wiwa, delving into the complex landscapes of herbal medicine in sub-Saharan Africa, with a specific focus on the Niger Delta region, central to the artist's practice.
The narrative unfolds by contrasting two distinct worlds of herbal medicine. On one side, we witness the assertive domain of Nigeria's bio-medicine industry, while on the other, the silent and esoteric practices of bush nurses and traditional healers in rural Nigeria. Despite their differences, these two worlds share a long-standing relationship, dating back to the era of Western European colonization in the 20th century.
The work explores the historical transformation of plants into pharmaceuticals, showcasing the coexistence of medicinal plants in various forms. It traces the impact of European colonialism on herbal remedies, emphasizing the shift from oral records to written documentation and the subsequent molecularization of African plant therapies.
“Song of the Medicine Man" also contemplates the role of biomedical advertising as an incantation, blending scientific language with praises for traditional wisdom. It navigates a path through the landscape, claiming certainty about the land and the human body with a mix of humor, repetition, rhythm storytelling, and invocations. As the narrative unfolds, the persuasive nature of this biomedical discourse becomes apparent, highlighting the parallels between biomedicine and traditional herbal medicine in utilizing sound and rhythm for healing.
Contrasting with the assertive biomedical world, the film introduces the silent movements of bush nurses, traditional healers, and their communities. Communicating with plants on their own terms, they navigate a world where reliance coexists with mistrust, fear, and derision. Their indigenous knowledge operates in silence and code beneath the clamor of biomedical promises.
“Song of the Medicine Man" ultimately speaks to the intricate complexities of the African relationship with the land, indigenous wisdom, and self, offering a profound exploration of the silent interplay between tradition and modernity in the realm of healing practices.
Installation view at the exhibition “The Roots of Our Hands Deep as Revolt: Entangled Colonialities of the Green” at Kunstraum Kreuzberg/Bethanien (18.11.2023–14.01.2024) Exhibition curated by Nyabinghi Lab. Work commissioned by Nyabinghi Lab.