ExhibitsUSA Explores the Legacy of Kente Cloth in New Exhibition

More art for all people—that’s the vision that drives ExhibitsUSA and its touring exhibitions program.

At Mid-America Arts Alliance, our ExhibitsUSA program is dedicated to bringing diverse cultural experiences to communities across the United States, rural and urban. Since 1988, we’ve been on a mission to strengthen artists, organizations, and communities by creating access to meaningful arts and humanities experiences. Each year, we carefully develop, curate, and tour more than 25 turnkey exhibitions to small and mid-sized museums and cultural institutions nationwide, offering five-, seven-, and ten-week exhibitions at reduced rental fees.

One of our newest exhibition opportunities tells the legendary story of kente cloth.

In the world of textile arts, few fabrics have as much to communicate as kente. More than just a piece of fabric, kente is a living narrative of Ghanaian culture, woven with threads of history, symbolism, and artistic mastery.

Through our latest touring exhibition, we’re excited to bring this incredible cultural treasure to communities across the country. The Legend of Kente offers a glimpse into the intricate world of this extraordinary textile. Featuring over 50 kente weavings, four distinctive dresses, and a documentary-style video showcasing the cloth’s creation, the exhibition promises to be a profound cultural journey.

Beyond Fabric: A Language of Symbols

Kente is not merely cloth—it’s a form of non-verbal communication. Each pattern carries a specific meaning, with hundreds of distinct designs that can express complex emotions and narratives. For instance, the pattern “Mako Maso Adeae” translates to “my heart’s desire,” embodying the depth of emotional expression woven into every thread. The colors themselves are rich with symbolism.

Peplum and long skirt constructed with kente strips featuring the Obaa Pa (Good Woman) motif, 2015; cotton and polyester, approximately 60 x 36 x 12 inches on garment form; Courtesy of Beatrice Benson Collection. (Detail)

A Royal Legacy Transformed

Originating in the village of Bonwire, kente was once a cloth reserved for royalty. Today, it has transcended its original boundaries to become a global symbol of African and Black diaspora identity. The cloth’s journey from royal chambers to international recognition reflects the resilience and creativity of Ghanaian artisans.

Our Curator’s Insight

ExhibitsUSA has partnered with curator Dr. Gifty Afua Benson on The Legend of Kente, whose expertise has brought this exhibition to life. Dr. Benson states, “Kente speaks to us. There is a story in each cloth.” Read the full Q&A with her insights.

Exhibition Details

Tour dates begin June 2026 through May 2031. Contact our ExhibitsUSA team to inquire about booking the exhibition at MoreArt@maaa.org or (800) 473-3872 extension 208 or 209.

Header Image Credit:

Detail of one strip wide kente cloths featuring two versions of the motif Nsatea Nyina Nye Pe (All Fingers Are Not Equal), at far left and middle left, and two unidentified motifs at middle right and far right, 2015; cotton and polyester, each folds to install at approximately 47 x 6 inches; Courtesy of Beatrice Benson Collection.