courtesy of MBAD African Bead Museum
This summer, the MBAD African Bead Museum will host the 15th Annual African Bead Festival, a vibrant celebration of African heritage, art, and storytelling. Set against the backdrop of the museum’s iconic outdoor installations on Grand River Avenue, the festival promises a weekend filled with cultural immersion and community engagement.
Founded by artist and cultural historian Olayami Dabls, the MBAD African Bead Museum has been a cornerstone of Detroit’s cultural landscape for over two decades. The museum’s mission is to educate and inspire through the rich traditions of African beadwork and art. Despite facing challenges, including the recent demolition of a significant building on its campus, the museum continues to thrive, embodying resilience and the enduring spirit of the community.
Festival Highlights
The 15th Annual African Bead Festival will feature a diverse array of activities designed to engage attendees of all ages:
- Bead Workshop Classes: Participants can learn the art of beadwork, creating their own meaningful designs under the guidance of skilled artisans.
- Group Storytelling Tours: Explore the rich history and cultural significance of African beads and art through immersive storytelling experiences.
- Jewelry Making Sessions: Craft custom pieces inspired by the museum’s stunning collection, blending traditional techniques with personal creativity.
The goal of these activities is to cultivate a greater appreciation of African heritage while encouraging hands-on creativity. The festival is ideal for schools, organizations, and groups seeking to delve into African culture in an interactive environment.
The MBAD African Bead Museum is renowned for its extensive collection of African material culture, including beads, masks, and sculptures. The museum’s outdoor sculpture garden features 18 installations, such as the notable piece “Iron Teaching Rocks How to Rust,” which uses iron, rocks, wood, and mirrors to metaphorically depict the complex relationship between African and European heritages.
In addition to its artistic offerings, the museum has been actively involved in community revitalization efforts. Collaborations with organizations like the University of Michigan have led to innovative projects, such as the African Futurist Greenhouse, which combines indigenous architecture with sustainable practices to educate visitors about African plants and their uses in crafts.
Despite the challenges faced, including the loss of a significant building due to demolition, the MBAD African Bead Museum remains committed to its mission. Plans are underway for further renovations and expansions, aiming to create functional spaces for exhibitions, educational programs, and community gatherings. Fundraising efforts continue, with the goal of preserving and enhancing this vital cultural institution for future generations.
Event Details
Saturday, June 14, 2025 10:00am – 9:00pm
MBAD African Bead Museum, 6559 Grand River Avenue, Detroit
Join the MBAD African Bead Museum in celebrating 15 years of cultural enrichment, artistic expression, and community resilience at this year’s African Bead Festival.
For more information or to book workshops and tours, interested parties can email the museum at mbadmuseumgeneral@yahoo.com.
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