“Contours of Memory” is an exhibition that spans artistic expression from the past four decades, showcasing the transformative power of African art in shaping cultural narratives. The exhibition brings together a dynamic array of styles and mediums, from Wole Lagunju's vibrant interpretations of West African mythology to Tesfaye Urgessa's poignant explorations of diaspora and identity. Each piece in the show, a distinct voice in its own right, collectively weaves a story that transcends time, reflecting on the enduring legacies and evolving memories that define African heritage. The exhibition features works from El Anatsui, Oladélé Ajiboyé Bamgboyé, Merikokeb Berhanu, Victor Ekpuk, William Kentridge, Wole Lagunju, Tesfaye Urgessa, and Beatrice Wanjiku.
El Anatsui's early work from the Nsukka Curtain series in 1988 marks a significant phase in his artistic journey. Integrating Uli and Nsibidi forms, these pieces reflect Anatsui's initial foray into melding traditional African artistic languages with contemporary art. The intricate patterns and symbolic elements of this series represent a deep engagement with African history, culture, and aesthetics, illustrating his exploration of identity and cultural heritage.
Oladélé Ajiboyé Bamgboyé is concerned with the embodiment of diaspora, drawing upon the history of African studio-portrait photography, in which the studio is the site for staging fantasies of self-expression. Bamgboyé’s Celebrate series (1994) traces his movements as he dances through a luminous white environment streaked with crinkled streamers. The setting, with his multiple and shifting exposures, is indeterminate to the point of illegibility. Contrary to his earlier works, these scenes evoke a joyous ebullience that calls to mind Hélio Oiticica’s Parangolés of the 1960s, in which performers took to the streets dancing, dressed in bands of color.
Merikokeb Berhanu's abstract paintings add vibrant, introspective layers to the exhibition. Her emotive use of color and form dives into the psyche, exploring the journey of self-discovery amidst societal upheavals. Berhanu's work emphasizes the personal dimensions of identity, adding depth and introspection to the collective narrative.
Victor Ekpuk contributes with his use of nsibidi symbols in an early large scale painting. His work creates a dialogue between traditional and contemporary narratives, speaking to the evolving nature of identity in a rapidly transforming world. Ekpuk's blend of ancestral traditions with modern experiences adds a unique perspective to the exhibition.
William Kentridge sets a reflective tone with a piece from his 2012 "Rubrics" series. These works, engaging with the post-apartheid context of South Africa, invite viewers into a dialogue with history and memory. Kentridge's unique blend of drawing, animation, and textual elements in these pieces offers a multifaceted approach to understanding and recontextualizing the past, echoing the emotional depth found in historical narratives.
Wole Lagunju's latest work "Bamileke Trance," inspired by a Cameroonian crown, introduces a vibrant intersection of cultural memory and modern artistic expression. Lagunju's artwork, a vivid amalgamation of traditional African aesthetics and contemporary forms, reflects on the enduring influence of cultural heritage in shaping contemporary identities.
Tesfaye Urgessa's figurative expressionist paintings vividly capture the experiences of displacement and diaspora. His portrayal of the human form amidst change speaks to the challenges of maintaining cultural identity in the face of global shifts, highlighting the complexities of adaptation and resilience.
Lastly, Beatrice Wanjiku's monochromatic paintings provide a contemplative perspective. Her expressive figures, distorted and introspective, confront viewers with the complexities of the human condition within societal constructs, echoing themes of existentialism.
Contours of Memory is an immersive journey into the heart of African storytelling. It celebrates the rich tapestry of African life and culture, woven together by the unique artistic languages of these seven artists. The show stands as a testament to the enduring spirit and evolving narrative of the continent, inviting viewers to explore and reflect on the multifaceted experiences of African identity.
The exhibition runs from February 1 through March 30, 2024 and is on public view at 526 West 26th Street, 4th Floor, New York, NY 10001 Thursday - Saturday from 11-3pm. For more information, email info@montaguecontemporary.com.