Aya Koné

The House of Words is a (re-)translation of the Toguna, a traditional public structure of the Dogon peoples of Mali. It is a place of discourse, dialogue, conflict and compromise. When peoples of the village find themselves in conflict, the afflicted parties are sent to the Toguna to work it out. The roof of the structure is built too low for the average person to stand upright comfortably, so that when you enter, you are forced to crouch down and sit. The effect is humbling, with the intention to diffuse the tension an argument can create. It finds its function when persons in conflict step inside and agree to begin the conversation(s). You are welcome.