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ArtReview's May 2022 Issue Explores Magic, Queer Theory, and Global Art

publication · 2026-04-20

The May 2022 issue of ArtReview features Ghanaian artist Ibrahim Mahama on its cover, highlighting his community-focused work at the Savannah Centre for Contemporary Art in Tamale. Azu Nwagbogu emphasizes that Mahama's methods offer a new lens on African art spaces, challenging the usual neglect of colonial histories by embracing innovation and restitution. J.J. Charlesworth contributes an essay that delves into the art world's long-standing ties to mystical ideas, from William Blake to Chiara Fumai, often overshadowed by rational thought. Additionally, Franco-Guyanese-Danish artist Tabita Rezaire collaborates with Naomi Moonlion to explore technology and spiritual healing in the context of colonialism. Rosanna McLaughlin addresses the rise of queer theory in contemporary art, highlighting its role in shifting ideologies within museums and colonial contexts. The issue also reviews prominent events like the Venice Biennale and includes discussions on various artists and exhibitions.

Key facts

  • ArtReview's May 2022 issue cover features Ibrahim Mahama
  • Mahama founded the Savannah Centre for Contemporary Art in Tamale
  • Azu Nwagbogu discusses Mahama's focus on experimentation and restitution
  • J.J. Charlesworth explores the artworld's history with magic and spirituality
  • Tabita Rezaire and Naomi Moonlion present a project on healing from colonialism
  • Rosanna McLaughlin analyzes queer theory's role in contemporary art
  • Reviews include the Venice Biennale, SP-Arte fair, and Desert X AlUla
  • The issue contains a roundtable with The Asia Forum for the Contemporary Art of Global Asias

Entities

Artists

  • Ibrahim Mahama
  • Tabita Rezaire
  • Naomi Moonlion
  • William Blake
  • Austin Osman Spare
  • Chiara Fumai
  • Yoko Ono
  • Jac Leirner
  • Bruno Barbey

Institutions

  • ArtReview
  • Savannah Centre for Contemporary Art
  • Venice Biennale
  • SP-Arte
  • Desert X AlUla
  • The Asia Forum for the Contemporary Art of Global Asias
  • Whitney Biennale

Locations

  • Tamale
  • Ghana
  • Venice
  • Italy
  • São Paulo
  • Brazil
  • AlUla
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Rio de Janeiro

Sources