NOAAM opens‘Vince Fraser: Ancestral Odyssey’

By Fritz Esker
Contributing Writer

The New Orleans African American Museum (NOAAM) will debut a new permanent installation titled “Vince Fraser: Ancestral Odyssey” on June 19 to coincide with Juneteenth.

The immersive installation, set across two sites on the museum’s Treme campus, will use cutting-edge technology to explore themes of identity and history with an examination of the traditions of Black Masking Indians. The museum’s chief curator, Gia Hamilton, curated the installation, which was created by London-based digital Afro-surrealist artist Vince Fraser. The NOAAM’s website describes “Ancestral Odyssey” as reimagining “the Black Masking Indians’ spiritual and aesthetic traditions, inviting viewers on a spiritual odyssey through ancient, African mythological realms.”

“We’re honored to have Vince’s installation joining NOAAM, giving us an opportunity for historical reflection through new expressive mediums,” said Gia Hamilton, NOAAM executive director and chief curator. “Fraser’s work connects African roots with modern Black life and aims to inspire, particularly young artists of color, by showing how digital art can honor the African diaspora. As our institution aims to reflect the cultural past, present and future of New Orleans, ‘Ancestral Odyssey’ embodies NOAAM’s vision for a future where digital innovation becomes a powerful tool for cultural memory.”

Fraser, whose parents were Jamaican, made many trips to New Orleans for research. The creative process took about two years to complete.

“I embraced it and jumped in headfirst,” Fraser said. “New Orleans has a special place in my heart, as a city that extends ancestral power and celebration.”

He spoke with several Black Masking Indians, including Big Chief Shaka Zulu. He found himself in awe of the Black Masking Indians’ work ethic, with many working four hours a day on their costumes, and the artistry of their creations.

The installation offers visitors a multi-sensory environment. Fraser used AI to create evocative digital compositions mixed with soundscapes that feature music from Black Masking Indians and the words of poet Sunni Patterson. “My work is kind of like stepping into a portal into a different, unique and interesting world,” Fraser said.

Fraser said AI has opened up many new and exciting possibilities for visual artists. Work that used to take a month can now be done in the blink of an eye. He can go frame by frame through a video of Black Masking Indians, run it through AI, and create something new.

“For artists who like to push boundaries, it’s a great visual storytelling tool,” Fraser said. “I never thought I’d live to see what we’re able to do now.”

Fraser hopes his installation will serve as an inspiration for other artists.

“This installation is not just about the past. It’s about showing everyone, especially young artists of color, that there is a need and space for their stories in the present,” Fraser said.

While “Ancestral Odyssey” will be a permanent installation, the NOAAM will celebrate its opening with a public reception featuring activations led by artist Ashli Ogenlodh-Curry and music by DJ Sabine. Space is limited, so the NOAAM encourages interested parties to register ahead of time at www.eventbrite.com/e/ancestral-odyssey-by-vince-fraser-tickets-1373578723939?aff=oddtdtcreator.

This article originally published in the June 16, 2025 print edition of The Louisiana Weekly newspaper.