1. Michael Armitage, The Dumb Oracle, 2019, Oil on Lubugo bark, 150,5 x 100,5 cm, © the artist and the Norval Foundation - Courtesy of Homestead Group Holdings Ltd
Figuration at it's cote
Until the end of October 2024, the Kunstmuseum in Basel present “When We See Us - A Century of Black Figuration in Painting”, an exhibition that highlight and celebrate Black artists and their contributions to the history of art over the past century.
Originally curated by Koyo Kouoh and Tandazani Dhlakama from Zeitz MOCAA in Cape Town, the exhibition as been adapted for the Kunstmuseum Basel with an interdisciplinary team, made of Anita Haldemann, Maja Wismer, and Daniel Kurjaković.
The exhibition focuses on the diverse and powerful representations of Black figures in figurative painting, through a range of styles and techniques. During the show, you will see how Black artists aim to challenge traditional narratives and provide a platform for Black artists to express themselves authentically, while recognizing their powerful work to the European audience.
Figuration in the African continent
2. Jacob Lawrence, The Card Game, Tempera on board, 1953, © 2024 ProLitteris, Zurich, SCAD Museum of Art Permanent Collection, Gift of Dr. Walter O. Evans and Mrs Linda J. Evans
The presentation at the Kunstmuseum Basel showcases a kaleidoscope of Black figurative painting from the past one hundred years. Originally produced by the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa in Cape Town, this exhibition brings over 150 paintings by around 120 artists.
With so many works, the show sheds light on how the lives of Black people have been misrepresented by others in false, and distorted ways throughout history. The show also aims to continue the attachment of American-African artists to the institution, with previous solo show of Theaster Gates, Sam Gilliam, Kara Walker, and Carrie Mae Weems, thus highlighting the numerous perspective the institution had for decades for art made outside the occidental word.
The rundown of the exhibition
While the title “When we see us” is a reference to the Netflix miniseries "When They See Us" (2019), in which the African-American director Ava DuVernay examines how white people indiscriminately perceive and wrongfully prosecute black teenagers as potential criminals and hence as a threat.
This reflection is turned over by the institution and thus presents how the European audience don't recognize in their own right the work from other continents, thus highlighting the powerful messages, technique and craftsmanship people and artists from all around the world have.
The show in itself is a powerful statement of Black artists reclaiming their narratives and showcasing the richness and diversity of their experiences. By doing so, it challenges conventional art spaces and pushes boundaries by centering Black voices and perspectives in an exhibition, which not only celebrates and sheds light on the complexities and nuances of Black identity.
Through a diverse range of mediums and styles, the artists explore themes such as family, community, spirituality, and heritage, thus creating a global perspective on the art world, and how artists from every continent use those themes as a testament to their craft and practice.
The first chapter of the exhibition, “Triumph and Emancipation”, is dedicated to the images and stories of triumph and emancipation of African Arts. Due to the complex history of the African continent, from the civil rights movement to the achievements of black leaders in politics and culture, the displays showcase the resilience and determination of African-descended people throughout history, and thus, how African citizen came in contact with art thought those events, and thus created a kind of familiarity to those faces.
The chapter also highlights the cultural contributions of African descendants, from music and art to literature and fashion. Icons like Maya Angelou and James Baldwin are celebrated for their work in advancing social justice and breaking down barriers in their respective fields.
Overall, the triumph and emancipation of people of African descent are celebrated and honored in this chapter of the museum. Visitors are left with a sense of pride and inspiration, knowing that the struggles of the past have led to progress and change in our world today.
“Sensuality” is the second chapter of the exhibition, where artists challenge the traditional notions of beauty and eroticism, portraying their subjects with a sense of autonomy and rigor.
Roméo Mivekannin’s reinterpretation of Félix Vallotton's” Le modèle noir” and Sahara Longe’s evocative “Reclining Nude” with Lemon both exemplify this reclamation of power and self-expression, but also the reinterpretation by black artist of a vision made by a European or occidental painter.
Nonetheless, the chapter also presents the diverse manifestations of sensuality, exploring themes of love, desire, and intimacy in ways that defy conventional standards. Thus, we are presented with a celebration of the human form in all its beauty and complexity. These works serve as a reminder that sensuality is not solely defined by external perceptions, but by the inner strength and resilience of the individuals who embody it.
The third chapter presents the spiritual aspect of black everyday life. Based on the work of the Kenyan-American writer Ali Mazrui (1933– 2014), who portrayed in his book “The Africans: A Triple Heritage”, how black life is in capacity to incorporate Indigenous, Islamic, and Christian traditions and rituals in their daily routine.
Thus, the works on display showcase the deep connection between spirituality and everyday existence for Black individuals. From the creation story depicted in Lawrence’s painting to the mystical and prophetic imagery in Armitage’s work, viewers are able to see how spirituality permeates all aspects of life for African citizens.
Through these artistic representations, viewers are invited to reflect on their own spiritual beliefs and practices, and to consider the rich tapestry of traditions that have been passed down through generations. Spirituality, as depicted in these works, serves as a source of strength, guidance, and connection to a higher power for Black individuals navigating the complexities of everyday life.
The fourth chapter of the exhibition is dedicated to mountain event in the life of the African citizens. Whether it's a family gathering, a community event, a moment of playfulness, a scene from a school, a chore, or the intimate act of braiding hair, these paintings celebrate the ordinary moments that we sometimes take for granted. They remind us that beauty can be found in the everyday, if only we take the time to appreciate it.
Through their artwork, these artists invite us to pause, reflect, and find joy in the simple things of life. They encourage us to look around and see the beauty that surrounds us, even in the most mundane of activities. So take a moment to appreciate the everyday moments that make life special, just like these artists have done in their captivating paintings.
The fifth chapter of the show is dedicated to happiness, festive moments and leisure. As the curators point out, there is always time for a song or a dance. In Esiri Erheriene-Essi’s “The Birthday Part”y (2021), characters come together to sing in honor of anti-apartheid activist Steve Biko. These artworks remind us of the importance of embracing moments of joy and revelry, no matter the circumstances.
The last section is a time of peace, scenes of rest and relaxation which invite the visitors to pause and savor moments of tranquility.
As visitors navigate the lively exhibitions and vibrant displays, the scenes of repose on the third floor serve as a reminder of the importance of rest in the midst of life's busyness. Here, in this quiet sanctuary, one can truly appreciate the beauty of simply being, surrounded by art that encourages introspection and reflection.
Informations about the exhibition
Place: Kunstmuseum Basel
Date: 25.5.2024 - 27.10.2024
Curator: Koyo Kouoh, Tandazani Dhlakama, Anita Haldemann, Maja Wismer and Daniel Kurjaković
Ticket: Available on the website of the Kunstmuseum Basel OR at the front desk of the museum
Informations about the Kunstmuseum Basel
Kunstmuseum Basel
St. Alban-Graben 8
CH-4010 Basel
Phone: +41 61 206 62 62
Fax: +41 61 206 62 52
Mail: info@kunstmuseumbasel.ch
© Lucas GASGAR / Lucas Art Talks 2024