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Gadiaba Kodio's artwork is a bone-carved pair of glasses inspired by the deep traditions of African art. The work draws on the symbolism of masks, which often represent ancestors or spirits and are treated with respect and reverence as living beings. These handcrafted creations, whether simple or elaborate, monochrome or polychrome, have long been central to ceremonies and spiritual practices. Kodio, by transforming a functional object into a spiritual one, merges the contemporary act of seeing with ancestral vision, questioning what it means to look, to be seen, and to belong. Untitled becomes a bridge between worlds, between utility and belief, the individual and the collective, inviting viewers to reflect on identity, heritage, and the enduring power of transformation.

Gadiaba Kodio is a Malian artist and designer whose work critically examines contemporary habits of consumption, waste, and environmental impact. Growing up near a vast landfill on the outskirts of Bamako, he developed an early fascination with discarded objects, transforming them into toys and everyday objects. This formative experience nurtured a deep awareness of the value embedded in what society throws away and inspired a lifelong artistic practice rooted in reuse and transformation.

Combining photography, scenography, and design, Kodio creates sculptures and installations from salvaged materials such as metal, plastic, rubber, and wood. His works question the lifecycle of objects and invite viewers to rethink the relationship between utility, aesthetics, and sustainability. By reimagining what others discard, Kodio invites a more conscious relationship with the objects and materials that surround us.
Alongside his artistic practice, Kodio founded Chez TOI-Design, a studio and gallery dedicated to eco-conscious design. There, he reinvents everyday objects, turning bathtubs into armchairs or suitcases into trash cans, offering accessible models for reuse and encouraging others to adopt more sustainable habits at home.
Kodio’s vision centres on education and empowerment. He aspires to train young people in Mali to transform waste into valuable creations, promoting a mindful approach to consumption. Through his work, he unites art and activism, advocating for a future where creativity helps solve environmental challenges.