Olayami Dabls

For decades, Detroit artist Olayami Dabls has explored the intersections of art, history, identity, community, and healing through sculpture, storytelling, and material culture. Founder of the MBAD African Bead Museum, Dabls presents commentary on the past, present, and future from African and African American perspectives, drawing upon traditions in which materials convey identity and serve as messages for healing and protection. In 2022, he received the prestigious Kresge Artist Award for his innovative practice and enduring legacy within his community and beyond. 

Joining Dabls in conversation is Nichole Christian, a writer, editor, and native Detroiter. Since 2019, she’s worked as the independent creative director, editor, and lead writer of the Kresge Eminent Artists monograph series, produced annually by the Kresge Foundation. The series includes The Culture Keeper, which in 2022 chronicled the ongoing legacy of Olayami Dabls and his African Bead Museum. Christian is the co-author of the award-winning public art book, Canvas Detroit. Previously, she has worked as a staff writer for publications including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Time magazine, and the Detroit Free Press. She is currently the managing editor for Outlier Media. 

Coinciding with his Penny Stamps Speaker Series appearance, the Institute for the Humanities Gallery will present Olayami Dabls: Grand Vision from September 22 – October 28, 2026. The exhibition features Dabls’work in visual conversation with African beads and artifacts from the MBAD African Bead Museum and his collections. The project also includes the installation of his iconic outdoor sculpture, Iron Teaching Rocks Table Manners, on the University of Michigan campus from September 22 – October 12, 2026.

Presented in partnership with the U‑M Institute for the Humanities.

Series presenting partners: Detroit PBS, ALL ARTS, and PBS Books. Media partner: Michigan Public.