How the Granite Sculpture Symposium in Laongo is Transforming Burkina Faso into a Must-Visit Artistic Hub

The serene village of Laongo, nestled 35 kilometers from Burkina Faso’s capital, Ouagadougou, has become a vibrant cultural hotspot. The 14th International Granite Sculpture Symposium, which kicked off on October 11th, has drawn 17 talented sculptors from nine African and European countries. This event is more than just a gathering of artistic minds—it’s a celebration of cultural exchange and artistic expression that has turned Laongo into a must-visit destination for tourists and art lovers alike.

The focus of the symposium, which began in 1988, is to leave a lasting imprint on Laongo’s rugged granite outcrops, transforming the area into an open-air museum. Over the years, more than 60 artists have left their creative marks on the granite, producing over 2,000 works that stand as a testament to the enduring legacy of this unique artistic gathering. As the symposium nears its end, the latest cohort of artists is adding their pieces to this growing collection, making Laongo a beacon of creativity and inspiration.

Art that Speaks of Coexistence and Tradition

Among the artists participating for the first time is Malian sculptor Indépendance Dougnon. Using a jackhammer and grinder, Dougnon is working on a piece that symbolizes love and coexistence. His sculpture, featuring two figures of opposite genders in close proximity, reflects a powerful message of unity and the importance of spreading love. “My work speaks of coexistence,” Dougnon explains. “It is important to spread love everywhere. It is a beautiful experience for me to meet other artists and exchange ideas.”

This gathering of artists is not only a platform for creation but also a space for dialogue and the exchange of ideas. Dougnon’s sentiments are echoed by Burkinabè sculptor Karim Tapsoba, a veteran of three previous symposiums. Tapsoba’s work delves into the theme of communication, blending traditional methods with modern interpretations. He explains, “In the tradition of communication from mouth to ear, that’s the tradition of oral communication, and given the evolution of modernity and communication, we now have antennas that really promote and expand communication.” His piece serves as a bridge between the past and the present, capturing the evolution of human connection through the ages.

A Cultural Oasis in the Heart of Burkina Faso

The granite sculpture symposium in Laongo is more than just an event—it has become a cultural pilgrimage for both residents and tourists. Visitors like Parfait Zongo appreciate the opportunity to engage with art that reflects on the past, present, and future. “These sculptures allow people to reflect on the past, the present, and even the future,” Zongo shares. “It’s a very good thing because it helps people get to know the artists’ work and also allows visitors to appreciate or learn a lot.”

The open-air museum atmosphere of Laongo offers a unique experience, where visitors can explore the works at their own pace, immersed in the natural beauty of the area. The site has become a source of pride for the community, showcasing the talent of artists who come from near and far to contribute to the legacy of Laongo.

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The Vision Behind Laongo’s Artistic Transformation

The visionary behind this transformation is Siriky Ki, the founder of the symposium. Reflecting on the beginnings of the event, he describes the initial goal as bringing artists together to leave their mark on the granite. “Coming into the bush, meeting granite outcrops, and leaving our imprint on them for future generations was, for me, like a mission,” Ki says. His vision has grown far beyond those early aspirations, turning Laongo into a prominent tourist destination that draws visitors throughout the year.

For Ki and the organizers, the symposium is a celebration of creativity, a way to preserve and share the rich cultural heritage of Burkina Faso while embracing new influences from other countries. The event has grown to symbolize the resilience and creativity of the Burkinabè people, creating a lasting bond between the land, its history, and its artistic future.

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A Growing Attraction for Art Lovers and Tourists

As the 14th edition of the symposium draws to a close, the impact of this event on Laongo and its surrounding areas cannot be overstated. The village, once a quiet spot in the shadow of Ouagadougou, has now become a thriving tourist destination. The influx of visitors has brought new economic opportunities, with local businesses and vendors benefiting from the increased foot traffic.

The sculptures, each telling a unique story, offer a visual journey through time and culture. For visitors, exploring the granite works is a chance to see art in a new light—unconstrained by the walls of a traditional gallery and shaped by the natural landscape of Burkina Faso. The symposium has turned Laongo into a space where art, nature, and community intersect, offering an experience that leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.

A Legacy Set in Stone

The Laongo Granite Sculpture Symposium has succeeded in turning an ordinary village into an extraordinary cultural destination. It’s a testament to how art can transform spaces and connect people across borders. As the latest edition concludes, it continues to solidify its role in the cultural landscape of Burkina Faso and beyond.

For sculptors like Indépendance Dougnon and Karim Tapsoba, the experience is more than just an opportunity to create—it’s a chance to share their visions with a global audience and to be part of a community that values creativity and expression. For visitors, Laongo is a place where history, art, and tradition come to life, offering a window into the spirit of Burkina Faso.

The granite sculpture symposium in Laongo is a reminder that art has the power to transcend time, leaving a legacy that future generations will admire. With every new piece, Laongo grows as a cultural beacon in West Africa, inviting the world to experience the beauty and depth of granite art in a setting unlike any other.