Francis Offman's Coffee-Infused Library at Palazzo Braschi
The exhibition program of the Quadriennale di Roma has commenced with Rwandan artist Francis Offman (b. 1987, Butare) showcasing his work at Palazzo Braschi, under the curation of Hans Ulrich Obrist. This display is part of the 'Paesaggi' series, which includes six shows occurring every two months. Offman has arranged twenty-three books on the floor, featuring a Rwandan Bible and a 1900 French grammar book, all covered in coffee and supported by a caliber. A two-meter monochrome painting, crafted from coffee powder, serves as a backdrop. The artworks are presented without labels, and Offman's incorporation of coffee grounds highlights Rwanda's coffee legacy while advocating for sustainability. An interview with Obrist is available at the entrance.
Key facts
- Francis Offman was born in Butare, Rwanda in 1987.
- The exhibition is curated by Hans Ulrich Obrist.
- It is part of the Quadriennale di Roma's 'Paesaggi' cycle of six bimonthly shows.
- The installation features 23 books on the floor, including a Rwandan Bible and a 1900 French grammar.
- All books are coated with coffee and oriented toward a dark monochrome painting made of coffee powder.
- Works are displayed without labels.
- Offman collaborated with specialty coffee expert Jessica Sartiani.
- The artist emphasizes sustainability and objects that biodegrade with their generation.
Entities
Artists
- Francis Offman
- Hans Ulrich Obrist
Institutions
- Quadriennale di Roma
- Palazzo Braschi
- Serpentine Galleries
Locations
- Butare
- Rwanda
- Rome
- Italy
- London
- United Kingdom