The exhibition showcases work by twenty artists drawing on historical imagery. They make use of archival photographs to reenvisage pictorial space, creating multivalent and sometimes fantastical works that transcend received narratives. The pictures are recontextualised and transformed into imaginary worlds where art acts as a healing force.
Both poetic and visionary, the works explore how colonial imagery continues to define identity, history, and belonging. With films and sculptures shown alongside photographs, the result is polyphonic, richly told, and inspiring. One is left with a question: what if these visual worlds came true?
With Sammy Baloji (DR Congo), Mary Enoch Elizabeth Baxter (USA), Raphaël Barontini (France), Daniel Boyd (Australia), Andrea Chung (USA), Omar Victor Diop (Senegal) & Lee Shulman (UK), Sasha Huber (Switzerland), Yuki Kihara (Samoa), Cédric Kouamé (Côte d'Ivoire), Dinh Q. Lê (Vietnam), Dimakatso Mathopa (South Africa), Tuli Mekondjo (Namibia), Tshepiso Moropa (South Africa) Aline Motta (Brazil), Frida Orupabo (Norway), Rosana Paulino (Brazil), Wendy Red Star (USA), David Shongo (DR Congo), Zenaéca Singh (South Africa).