The Exhibition
Embarking on a profound exploration of African identity within the intricate nexus of art and communications technology, a visionary exhibition curated by Bristow emerges as a compelling challenge to conventional artistic paradigms. Delving into a meticulous survey spanning South Africa, Kenya, and glimpses of Nigeria, Bristow unravels a rich tapestry of artistic discourse that critically engages with the complexities of African identification and resists the homogenizing forces of globalized culture. In this digital odyssey, artists utilize technology not merely as a medium but as a metaphorical conduit, weaving a multi-faceted narrative that challenges prevailing perceptions. The digital realm becomes a conceptual framework, allowing creators to represent the unseen and the magical elements embedded in cultural practices while simultaneously serving as a poignant critique of Western systems of knowledge. In this exhibition, the metaphoric capacity of digital art transcends its utilitarian function, offering a space where the intangible aspects of African identity come to life, pushing against the currents of globalized homogeneity with profound artistic depth.
Artists
CUSS Group (SA), Tabita Rezaire (SA), Nolan Oswald Dennis (SA), Pamela Phatsimo Sunstrum (SA), Thenjiwe Nkosi (SA), Emeka Ogbho (Nigeria), Haythem Zakaria (Tunisia), Jean Katambayi Mukendi (DRC), Sam Hopkins (Kenya), Muchiri Njenga (Kenya), Jepchumba (Kenya), Brooklyn J Pakathi (SA), Wanuri Kahui (Kenya), Dineo Sheshe Bopape (SA), Kapwani Kiwanga (CAN), The Brother Moves On (SA), Just A Band (Kenya), Lebogang Rasethaba & Nthato Mokgata (SA), Imagineering Lagos Collective (Nigeria).
EVENT LINEUP
In addition to the gallery exhibition, a series of talk, screenings, and performances will take place over the four-week duration of the show.
OPENING PERFORMANCES
Thurs 21 May | Goodman Gallery, JHB
• 18:30 The DISRUPTER X Project: NOTES FROM THE ANCIENTS by Pamela Phatsimo Sunstrum & Thenjiwe Niki Nkosi, featuring Dion Monti and Lisa Jaffe (SA)
• 19:00 Anamnesis initiatory vision by Joël-Claude MEFFRE (FR) for artist Haythem Zakaria (FR / TN).
DIGITAL AFRICA & NARRATIVE
Sat 23 May | Goodman Gallery, JHB
• 14:00 Hallu-Ci, short screening and talk by Brooklyn J Pakathi (SA)
• 14:30 Lagos 2060, feature screening and talk by Olamide Udo-Udoma of Lagos Imaginarium (NG)
POST FUTURES, KENYA: TRADITION IN THE GLOBALISED DIGITAL
Thurs 28 May | Goodman Gallery, JHB
• 18:30 Kichwateli, short screening + Q & A with Muchiri Njenga (KE)
• 19:00 Silicon Savannahs & Digital Landscapes, talk by Jepchumba (KE)
• 19:30 Pumzi, feature screening of Kenya Sci-Fi Film by Wanuri Kahui (KE)
DATA FUTURES
Sat 6 June | Goodman Gallery, JHB
• 14:00 SWAARTNET, talk by NTU (SA)
• 15:15 WWW GLOBAL COM, short screening of NTU artist’s works.
SOUND & AFRICAN CULTURES OF TECHNOLOGY
Thurs 18 June | Goodman Gallery, JHB
• 18:30 Mr Gold & Makmende, short screening and talk by The Brother Moves On and Just A Band (SA & KE)
• 19:15 Future Sound of Mzanzi, feature screening of documentary film by Lebogang Rasethebe & Nthato Mokgata (SA)
CLOSING PERFORMANCE
Sat 20 June | King Kong, 6 Verwey Street, Troyville, JHB
In collaboration with Keleketla @ King Kong
• 20:00 “The Afterlife with Mr Gold”, featuring The Brother Moves One (SA), Just A Band (KE) and OkMalumKoolKat (SA)
Muchiri Njenga will be among the artist showcasing their works. For more info, visit https://www.goodman-gallery.com/exhibitions/560
Check out Muchiri Njenga's art that was showcased at the exhibition below.
