“If something hurtful enters your body, you create something beautiful to protect yourself from it. That’s my philosophy.” – Wangechi Mutu.
These poignant words from Wangechi Mutu encapsulate the essence of her artistic journey. Living and working in New York during the early 2000s, Wangechi Mutu faced has created a name for herself worldwide. Her exhibition, “Intertwined,” featured Wangechi’s remarkable works from the late 90s to the present day. This showcase allowed viewers to delve deep into the artist’s soul. It unraveled the intricate tapestry of her experiences, emotions, and visions.
Transitioning from her earlier works to the present, Wangechi’s art has undergone an awe-inspiring transformation. The raw intensity of her earlier pieces metamorphosed into a refined, body of work that draws viewers into a world of profound contemplation. Each stroke of her brush or frame of her film emanates energy, guiding observers through a labyrinth of emotions and thoughts.
Wangechi’s unique ability to interlace different forms of expression gives her art a multidimensional quality. She becomes the conductor of a symphony, orchestrating harmonious blends of sight and sound. As such, she takes viewers on a journey beyond the confines of traditional artistic paradigms.
The exhibition combines works from her early days with her later pieces that transcend cultural boundaries, Wangechi Mutu’s art speaks of a profound exploration of self and society. As the exhibition unfolds, one can see the eloquence of Wangechi’s storytelling. Each piece unveils a unique chapter of her life’s narrative. Each piece, with intricate details, carefully envelops observers in a world of contemplation and introspection. Her combination of three mediums (film, music, and art ), creates a multisensory experience that leaves an imprint one’s mind.
Image courtesy of The New Museum
She explores themes of identity, femininity, and social issues, subject to different audiences. Wangechi’s ability to foster empathy through her art bridges the gap between diverse communities. As a result, she fosters conversations that spark change and inspire collective growth.
True to her works, Mutu has chosen to sell two captivating pieces in support of wildlife preservation. The benefits will go to the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust elephant orphanage in Kenya, to reintroduce baby elephants, rhinos, and giraffes into their natural habitats.
By acquiring one of these remarkable artworks, art enthusiasts not only acquire a captivating piece but also contribute to the preservation of wildlife. Wanegchi Mutu’s collaboration with the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is a testament to the transformative power of art and its ability to create meaningful change in the world.
You can contact her on Instagram to contribute to this cause.The Intertwined exhibition ushered in the high season in the US with more and more artists from the diaspora taking part in major art fairs. It allowed audiences to delve into the depths of her creative soul subject to her African origin. She allowed the audience to discover the beauty born from the embrace of hurtful elements. By doing this, she unified them in shared narratives of resilience. The exhibition was one for the books.
