Selebe Yoon has established itself as a beacon of artistic innovation in Dakar, showcasing exhibitions that inspire, while educating and challenging audiences. The institution’s commitment to artistic innovation is evident in its presentation of Arébénor Basséne’s Tarana, a captivating exhibition that delves into the complexities of history, geography, and cultural identity. On view from November 8th, 2024, to February 22nd, 2025, Tarana is a must-see exhibition that promises to leave audiences spellbound.
Arébénor Basséne’s work offers an imaginative reexamination of historical narratives, inspired by historian Pathé Diagne’s theories of transcontinental navigation between Africa and the Americas long before European conquests. Tarana weaves together myth, reality, and speculation, inviting viewers to engage with history as a fluid and multifaceted construct. Through stories like the founding of Mali in the epic of Soundiata Keita and the seafaring legend of Mandingo king Aboubakri II, Basséne examines both celebrated and overlooked histories, creating a dialogue between what is remembered and what is forgotten.
Central to the exhibition is Basséne’s innovative use of batik, a technique introduced to West Africa in the 19th century. Using wax, natural pigments, and materials like gum arabic, henna, and Koranic ink, he creates layered canvases that blur the boundaries between art and artifact. His works evoke ancient maps, celestial constellations, and archaeological relics, transforming them into striking visual narratives. Figures emerge fleetingly from abstract swirls of color, appearing as ethereal silhouettes—ghosts of history that exist in an ambiguous space between reality and myth.
Basséne’s creations are not just explorations of the past but meditations on the enduring mysteries of human experience. His canvases, textured and vibrant, evoke both the fragility and resilience of the narratives that shape collective memory. They suggest alternate possibilities—histories that might have been and those yet to be uncovered—while challenging audiences to question the authority and permanence of conventional historical accounts.
As visitors navigate the dreamlike landscapes of Tarana, they immerse themselves in a world where time, geography, and identity converge. Through its intricate layers and evocative abstraction, the exhibition dissolves the boundaries of linear storytelling, encouraging viewers to embrace history’s ambiguities and dream of its infinite potential. With Tarana, Selebe Yoon reaffirms its role as a platform for artistic experimentation and critical dialogue. Arébénor Basséne’s masterful work reminds us of the power of art to reimagine the past, inspire introspection, and spark new ways of understanding the world around us.
Selebe Yoon not only stands out for its groundbreaking exhibitions but also for its dedication to education and community engagement. Its comprehensive mediation program ensures accessibility for diverse audiences, with presentations available in English, French, or Wolof. This initiative fosters a deeper understanding of contemporary art by connecting it with broader cultural, historical, and social contexts. The institution’s public program is designed to activate the gallery space as a hub of interdisciplinary learning. Guided tours, workshops, interactive experiences, lectures, and symposia offer visitors the opportunity to engage deeply with the exhibitions. Tailored school programs immerse students in contemporary art, while Selebe Yoon welcomes national and international associations and universities year-round.
A cornerstone of Selebe Yoon’s educational mission is its reading room, open to the public from Tuesday to Saturday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. This space houses an extensive collection of contemporary art catalogs, including a comprehensive archive of the Dakar Biennale from 1992 to the present, alongside monographs of influential African artists and specialized art magazines. The library’s offerings span disciplines such as philosophy, architecture, poetry, and cinema, creating a fertile ground for interdisciplinary exploration. Resident artists continually enrich the collection with book recommendations, fostering a dynamic and ever-evolving resource.
Visitors can consult all materials on-site free of charge, emphasizing the institution’s commitment to accessibility. While no books are available for sale or loan, the reading room remains a vital space for research, reflection, and inspiration. The collection adapts with each new exhibition, integrating historical, geographical, political, and social contexts into its evolving discourse.
The dedication that Selebe Yoon has towards education and artistic innovation reflects its belief that meaningful dialogue between art and audiences requires both historical grounding and an openness to other disciplines. Whether through its exhibitions, research facilities, or public programs, Selebe Yoon continues to inspire, educate, and connect audiences. You can schedule a guided group tour or educational appointment today by sending an email.
