黑料不打烊

A World in Common presents twenty-three African and African diaspora artists from different generations and geographical contexts. Inspired by Africa鈥檚 rich cultures and its current sociopolitical landscape, the exhibition refers to the philosophy of Cameroonian scholar Achille Mbembe, who calls for us to imagine 鈥渁 world in common鈥� by 鈥渢hinking the world from Africa.鈥� Over one hundred works challenge the western-oriented conception of the world, exploring alternative historical narratives that are deeply rooted in the diverse experiences, philosophies, and knowledge systems of the African continent. 

Consisting of three chapters, the exhibition presents contemporary perspectives on cultural heritage, spirituality, self-representation, and climate justice. The show aims to highlight common artistic visions that reimagine Africa鈥檚 stories and redefine its place in the world. 

A World in Common examines how traditional forms of expression and spiritual practices have been maintained for years. The artists use photography and video to link aspects of history with the present. Their works demonstrate the central role that self-representation continues to play in the production of images as an expression of cultural resilience. 

The nineteenth-century invention of photography, which served as a tool for constructing Eurocentric depictions of African societies in the colonial period, decisively shaped how these societies presented themselves both visually and verbally. This practice had a lasting influence on the representation and construction of identity. Studio photographs taken in the 1950s and 1960s while many African nations were struggling to gain independence play a central role in the exhibition. Taking up this rich history of self-representation, African artists explore the contemporary significance of family portraits as a space of common bonds and connections, illustrating how identity and tradition are passed on, reinterpreted, and maintained for generations and over geographic distances, both on the African continent and in the diaspora. 

The exhibition also addresses the profound consequences of the global climate crisis and globalization, which transforms both landscapes and communities. The topics of migration and climate activism are assessed in bold and imaginative ways, with artists inspiring us to visualize a future in which social justice and ecological responsibility are interlinked. Viewers are invited to imagine a world that exists beyond the limits of colonial control and imperialistic exploitation. A World in Common creates a space for cultural and intellectual exchange that focuses on the perception of Africa and its role in the world.