Sandra Mujinga Explores Digital Self-Image and Solipsism

Sandra Mujinga, a Norwegian artist originally from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, explores the creation of self-image on digital platforms through a personal lens while working between Malmö and Oslo. Her work was highlighted in the 'Future Greats' section of ArtReview's January & February 2017 issue, emphasizing the human aspect of digital mediation instead of the internet itself. In her 2016 video installation 'Throwing Voice,' an android-like avatar, modeled in a faux-snakeskin jumpsuit, is displayed against a chroma-key green backdrop, with cylindrical Perspex structures casting green light on the gallery walls. The only human element is the audio of YouTube tutorials by black women on contouring. Mujinga's autumn 2016 solo exhibition 'Real Friends' at Oslo Kunstforening tackled the performance of self-representation in digital media and the anxiety of being reduced to a curated image evaluated by likes. Embracing a DIY approach, she handles her video production, soundtrack composition, and costume design. In 'ILYNL (It’s Like You Never Left)' (2016), her avatar appears across multiple screens, blending mobile footage from Africa and Europe with emojis, illustrating the dislocation of existing across time zones. Currently, her solo exhibition 'Lovely Hosts' is on display at Mavra, Berlin, until 22 January, and she will participate in the Norwegian Sculpture Biennale in Oslo starting 1 June.