East Africa

Jess Atieno’s “The Weight of Whispers” on Permanent Display in The Rockefeller Foundation in NYC

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The Rockefeller Foundation selected Kenyan artist Jess Atieno’s artwork, “The Weight of Whispers” will be displayed at their headquarters in New York City. The art community has greeted the news with excitement and congratulations, as Atieno’s work achieves international recognition.

Jess Atieno is a contemporary artist whose work explores themes of identity, memory, and history. She often incorporates found objects into her artwork, adding layers of meaning and complexity to her pieces. Galleries and museums around the world have exhibited her work. As such , she has earned numerous awards as she continues to contribute to the art world.

“The Weight of Whispers” is a mixed media piece that incorporates fabric, paper, and found objects. The piece explores the impact of colonialism on African identity .Furthermore, it explains the ways in which colonialism continues to shape contemporary African culture. In addition, the artwork is part of Atieno’s larger body of work, which seeks to address the complexity of African identity. Additionally, it also highlights the challenges faced by African artists in the global art world.

The Weight of Whispers, 2021, Serigraph on Canvas, 91.5 × 132 cm
Image courtesy of The Rockerfeller Foundation

The Rockefeller Foundation’s decision to display Atieno’s artwork is a significant recognition of her talent. The Foundation’s permanent collection features works of art that reflect the organization’s values of social justice, equity, and inclusion. Atieno’s artwork, with its powerful exploration of identity and history, is a fitting addition to the collection.

The Rockefeller Foundation has a long history of supporting the arts, dating back to its founding in 1913.
The Foundation views the arts as an essential component of their mission. They use art to promote the well-being of humanity, through its support of artists and cultural organizations. The Foundation seeks to foster creativity, inspire social change, and promote understanding across cultures.

Weight of whispers, 2022, Serigraph on canvas, 167 × 219 cm
Image Courtesy of Artsy

Atieno’s selection for the Rockefeller Foundation’s permanent collection is a recognition of her talent and a commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in the arts. It highlights the importance of elevating diverse voices in the art world. Furthermore, it highlights the role art plays in promoting social change.

Those who are unable to see the work in person can view the newly installed permanent collection on their website. This online platform allows a wider audience to access the Foundation’s collection . Additionally, It also serves as a valuable resource for art lovers and scholars.

Tell me the stories of paradise, 2022. Serigraph on Canvas, 198 × 168 cm
Image courtesy of Artsy

Jess Atieno’s selection for the Rockefeller Foundation’s permanent collection is a significant recognition of her talent and the importance of her message. Atieno’s work explores themes aligned with the Foundation’s mission. By and her selecting her works, the Foundation moves towards its commitment to promote diversity and inclusion in the arts. We congratulate Jess Atieno on this achievement! We look forward to seeing her continue to make an impact in the art world.

Author

Rose Mwikali Musyoki is a creative writer from Nairobi, Kenya. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Business and Finance from the University of Embu, Kenya, and is the founder of Bloom Inc, an art startup in Kenya. Currently, she works as a writer for Art Network Africa.

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