GODBODY by Diovanna Obafunmilayo
October 20 - November 25, 2026
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GODBODY asks the central question, “What does it mean to birth a body free of shame?” With this as its foundation, the series engages the body as a site of emotional processing and vessel for the divinity of self. The rich symbolism and philosophy of the AfroCuban religion, La Regla de Ocha Lukumí, become the spiritual technology with which Diovanna Obafunmilayo engages herself. Existing joyously, and in the process, conjuring a new sense of personhood, is the imperative. The series was made in the development process of the evening-length performance, GODBODY, a ritual opera, with the support of the Center for Performance Research and The Theatre Offensive.
Featured Artist
Diovanna Obafunmilayo Frazier is a multimedia performance artist, award-winning filmmaker, poet, and Grammy-nominated songwriter from Virginia Beach, VA. Her major choreographic debut came in Kehlani’s “Altar” (2021) music video, and this creative partnership led to her songwriting debut with the smash hit “After Hours” (2024). Her experimental dance-poetry film, “When We Arrive As Flowers”, has been screened at over 25 film festivals since its debut in 2022. As these different paths of artistry have continued to bloom, she has also developed as a painter, with works held in private collections across the country.
Current and Upcoming Exhibitions
GODBODY
October 20 – November 25, 2026