‘Wura’, meaning “precious” in Yoruba, is a sculptural tribute to the wealth, resilience, and complexity of the Global South. Fashioned from gold chain and cowrie shells, this installation weaves together narratives of trade, colonization and cultural rebirth. The cowries, once used as currency across Africa, Asia, and the Americas, are honoured here as symbols of an indigenous economy—one rooted in exchange, meaning, and connection. 

The gold chain, delicate yet strong, reflects the fragile identity of a newly defined Global South: powerful, precious, and still in formation. Together, these materials speak to both continuity and transformation—how old systems of value can shape new visions of unity and self-definition. ‘Wura’ encourages viewers to reflect on what we inherit, what we choose to carry forward, and how we build shared worth in a world still reckoning with its past.

 Through a dynamic interplay of sound and immersive design, the installation invites visitors to step into a multi-sensory space where oral histories, indigenous knowledge systems, and contemporary design solutions converge. By experiencing these narratives first-hand, visitors are encouraged to listen deeply and reflect on perspectives often absent from dominant conversations, as well as contribute their own voices to the conversation.

Of course, there is not only the question of why, but why now? As climate action, decolonisation and equitable development take centre stage, ‘Wura’offers a crucial platform for underrepresented voices. One where the Global South is not seen as an afterthought but as a driving force of inspiration and transformation. By centring the contributions of those who have been systemically side-lined, ‘Wura’ calls attention to the importance of equitable representation in storytelling and design. By celebrating the resilience, creativity, and leadership of the Global South, ‘Wura’ not only highlights these communities' contributions but also calls for their perspectives to inform global solutions.