Dig Where You Stand itinerant exhibition arrives in Benin
The African Artists Foundation has launched the fourth installment of the exhibition Dig Where You Stand at Fondation Zinsou Musée in Ouidah and Galerie Les Ateliers Coffi in Cotonou, which will be open until December 1. This exhibition showcases more than 50 pieces created by 22 artists, such as Zanele Muholi and Joana Choumali. Curators Delali Ayivi, Melissa Iiboudo Houadjeto, and Halima Moumoni-Jeanjean shared insights on the project's objectives, drawing inspiration from the philosophies of Azu Nwagbogu and Sven Lindqvist. Addressing themes of migration and decolonization, the initiative includes workshops for youth aged 10–16. Artists like Silvia Rosi and Natalia Lassalle-Morillo delve into issues of colonialism and identity, enhancing connections between African museums and promoting artist collaborations.
Key facts
- Fourth edition of Dig Where You Stand traveling exhibition
- Organized by African Artists Foundation
- Venues: Fondation Zinsou Musée (Ouidah) and Galerie Les Ateliers Coffi (Cotonou)
- Runs through December 1
- Over 50 works by 22 artists
- Artists include Zanele Muholi, Joana Choumali, Charbel Coffi, Roméo Mivekannin
- Curators: Delali Ayivi, Melissa Iiboudo Houadjeto, Halima Moumoni-Jeanjean
- Conceived by Azu Nwagbogu
- Inspired by Sven Lindqvist's philosophy
- Focus on decolonization, restitution, regenerative economies
- Youth workshops for ages 10–16 based on YECA program
- Silvia Rosi's series Teacher Don't Teach Me Nonsense
- Natalia Lassalle-Morillo's film Retiro
- Benin's art scene described as dynamic blend of tradition and modernity
- Exhibition aims to strengthen ties between African museums and foster artist collaborations
Entities
Artists
- Zanele Muholi
- Joana Choumali
- Charbel Coffi
- Roméo Mivekannin
- Silvia Rosi
- Natalia Lassalle-Morillo
- Azu Nwagbogu
Institutions
- African Artists Foundation
- Fondation Zinsou Musée
- Galerie Les Ateliers Coffi
- Youth Empowerment and Community Engagement (YECA)
Locations
- Benin
- Ouidah
- Cotonou
- Porto Rico