Senegal's graffiti art school - 30th June 2023

For decades, there's been graffiti art in Senegal. Graffiti's usually connected to hip hop culture, protest and some people think it's ugly. But, one school in Senegal's trying to change these opinions.

The RBS Akademya was started by a group of graffiti artists. Graffiti is often about social problems. Serigne Mansour Fall says it can help people understand their society.

Serigne Mansour Fall: "In fact, the idea wasn't to just educate the young to use this art as a means of making money, even if it's perfectly legitimate and legal. But also, young people who understand the realities of their time, who understand the realities of their people, who also understand the sacrifice that was made to bring us to this point."

The academy was built to support graffiti art. It's a place for new artists to learn from experienced artists.

Students study three theory and practice lessons a week. They spend 6 months studying various techniques. Then, they can develop their personal style.

Ibrahima Soumaré changed schools to focus on his artistic skills.

Ibrahima Soumaré: "I was at school, but I could no longer concentrate on my studies. And since I felt very comfortable with drawing, I decided to leave school to come here, to better my skill-set here to improve myself further."

Graffiti sends strong messages without fighting. Libasse Sarr loves this.

Libasse Sarr: "For me, graffiti is a tool that allows me to manifest and express myself. While people are in the streets to demonstrate with violence, art allows us to be noble and to put messages on the walls that will not go unnoticed."

It costs 40 euros to join the school and classes are 23 euros monthly. Only four students are in a class. This makes it easy for teachers to help students. When the course finishes, students receive a certificate. Then, they have to try to make money from their art.