Jamese Wells
Art and Change Grant
2007/ $2500
Neighborhood: West Philadelphia
Change Partner: Serena Reed
Discipline: Media Arts
Jamese will create a documentary video, "We Are Women, We Play Drums" that details the history, contribution, and significance of Voices of Africa, a Philadelphia-based, all-women a cappella and percussion ensemble whose music spans the African Diaspora. The film will explore the significance of women drummers and share the story of the group's founder, Nana Bakaan. Using archival footage, interviews with past and current members, along with film of the group's live performances, this documentary will give audiences insight into their struggle for recognition as women drummers in a male-dominated field, and share the power of this group whose art seeks to transform audiences.
Photo: Alwatan Kwele



