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When Titans Return – Raphael Ogoe
February 1 – February 29
Opening Reception: February 8, 6-8pm
Artist Talk: February 29, 2020, 12-4pm
2019 marked exactly 400 years since the first slave ship left the shores of Africa into slavery through the transatlantic slave trade and has been dubbed a “year of return” for the descendants of those Africans who were removed from their homeland.
This exhibition will unite art, design and architectural practice to explore African history, culture, gender, masculinity, folktale, and discovery. Through the powerful use of composition and references to mythology and oral folktale, the exhibition will not only trace history but will retrofit past events for an epic retelling and reimaginary of some key moments in history in a modern futuristic setting.
The exhibition will highlight some historical figures and illustrate how black women have had a long history of being in charge and playing important social roles in the defense of Africa. The ancestors of black women have been willing participants. In some cases, these ancestors have even initiated battles. The works will draw on many inspirational stories from folktales, myths, and legends; documenting the many heroes whose presence and actions are left uncelebrated.
The exhibition will deconstruct and merge ancient iconography and oral narratives about historical and mythical African figures. These art pieces will use everyday imagery to develop a story often blurring the boundaries between traditional and contemporary modes of representation. They will also display the critical portrayal of masculinity, femininity, and the physicality of humanity. The exhibition will thread and weave some elements inspired by architecture, symbolism, textile patterns, and fabric making of sub-Sahara Africa.
