Black Liquid Art, on May 11, 2024, welcomed patrons to a thought-provoking exploration titled ‘Beyond the Surface: The Inner World of Portraits’. This exhibition, centered on the portrayal of African women, beckons viewers to delve into the multifaceted essence of womanhood, particularly within the African context.
In the realm of contemporary art, the scrutiny of these portraits transcends mere visual inspection. With artists such as Aïda Muluneh, Olamilekan Abatan, Atiye Afolabi, and others, the exhibition serves as a platform for both scholars and artists to delve into the profound expressive capacity of portraiture.
The inherent beauty of black women often finds itself obscured by a societal landscape perpetuating white supremacy. As eloquently stated by African-American author and activist Bell Hooks, the pervasive myth of black women’s inferiority, deeply rooted in centuries of oppression and colonialism, continues to shape contemporary perceptions of beauty.
An important objective of the exhibition is to challenge historical stereotypes that have long defined African women. Bell Hooks advocates for portraits not only to exalt the external allure of African women but also to deconstruct the limiting and negative narratives imposed upon them.
Among the notable works showcased is that of Ethiopian artist Aïda Muluneh, offering a distinctive lens through which portraits serve as tools of resistance and revelation. Muluneh’s pieces not only capture the physical beauty of her subjects but also reflect the distorted narratives and injustices endured by African women. Her art underscores the transformative potential of portraiture in dismantling dominant ideologies and fostering new perspectives.
Osvaldo Ferreira
By delving into the inner worlds depicted in these portraits, ‘Beyond the Surface’ prompts viewers to transcend superficial appearances and immerse themselves in the intricate and diverse lives of the subjects portrayed. The result is not merely a celebration of beauty and human variability but also a poignant critique of entrenched power dynamics and ideological constructs shaping our perceptions of self and others.
Complementing the visual experience, the exhibition also features the book ‘Fortunatamente nera’ by Nogaye Ndiaye and the documentary ‘I am black, I am beautiful’ by filmmaker Sabrina Onana. These works offer poignant testimonies addressing issues of racism and discrimination from the perspective of black women residing in Italy and France, further enriching the discourse initiated by the exhibition.
