Otobong Nkanga's 'Corde che si arricciano attorno alle montagne' at Castello di Rivoli
In 2021, Otobong Nkanga's exhibition titled 'Corde che si arricciano attorno alle montagne' (Ropes Twisting Around Mountains) debuted at Castello di Rivoli. This exhibit is crafted as an 'ideal journey,' broadening the museum's role to provide varied experiences. Nkanga, who was born in 1974 in Kano, Nigeria, explores themes of ecological crises, resource exploitation, and sustainability, emphasizing interconnectedness. The installation occupies five rooms and includes two large tapestries inspired by Flemish weaving traditions, symbolizing micro-landscapes. Thick ropes on the floor represent geography, while Nkanga's poetic writings detail her creative process. Living materials in junctions highlight themes of care, accompanied by sounds reminiscent of lullabies. The wall colors deepen toward the center, reflecting Arte Povera's legacy, with influences from Giuseppe Penone.
Key facts
- Otobong Nkanga was born in 1974 in Kano, Nigeria.
- The exhibition is titled 'Corde che si arricciano attorno alle montagne'.
- It opened at Castello di Rivoli in 2021.
- The show is structured as an 'ideal journey' designed specifically for the museum.
- It explores ecological crisis, resource exploitation, and sustainability.
- The installation spans five rooms of the museum.
- Two large tapestries reference historical Flemish weaving traditions.
- Ropes on the floor evoke geography and umbilical cords.
- Materials include quartz, malachite, perfumes, and organic substances from near the castle.
- Nkanga's work shows influence of Arte Povera, particularly Giuseppe Penone.
Entities
Artists
- Otobong Nkanga
- Giuseppe Penone
Institutions
- Castello di Rivoli
- Artribune
Locations
- Rivoli
- Italy
- Kano
- Nigeria