(Source: 0verexposure)
On Wednesday May 16th our group visited the studio of Gabriel Kemzo Malou who is a local artist that lives and works on Gorée in the former studio of Moustapha Dimé. During our visit, we viewed his installation, which is one of the many “Off” shows that is being exhibited during the Biennale, and we discussed Malou’s artistic intentions and philosophy of art. His installation piece is located in a small isolated round room next to his studio. Upon entering the room I saw characters and letters of different languages written upon the walls, which form an indecipherable intermingling of languages. The dim light of the studio captures the atmosphere of a cave and references the origins of the creation of art. Malou’s use of mixed media, welding, and found objects enhances the visual complexity of this piece. There are a number of typewriters placed within the instillation that connect the ancient language to the present viewer. An open book mounted to the wall and placed under lock and key, has a commanding presence. In our group discussion of the piece, we interpreted the mixing of characters and symbols from cultures around the world to symbolize the need for communication and sharing of knowledge between cultures for human progress on a local and global scale. By not using one or two specific languages, Malou does not cater to a specific audience but rather creates a common experience for all viewers who are similarly unable to decipher the text. The universal lack of complete understanding and knowledge is the essence of this piece and the essence of Malou’s philosophy of art. As a group we discussed that the only way to resolve conflict between cultures is through communication and acceptance of other individuals and societies. Through this communication, we strive to obtain the key to the knowledge, as symbolized by the book in Malou’s installation, which will assist humanity in decoding and correcting existing conflicts. The monumental message of this piece epitomizes Malou’s clear agenda to use art as a vehicle to promote peace and social change. He specifically mentioned his experience of exploring different cultures and learning the symbol for peace within various communities. Malou aims to incorporate these symbols in his art to propagate peace through the power of visual media to resonate with people of varying experience and perspectives. In this manner, his art strives to connect individuals and nations through a common language of peace.
It is easy to view Malou’s artistic intention as an incredibly daunting, and a nearly impossible task for one artist or individual. However, our mere presence as an American college group visiting Senegal, demonstrates Malou’s objective in action. After living on Gorée for a week, all the members of our group are actively attempting to learn the language, and customs to engage in dialogue with locals to become a part of the community, even if only for a short period of time. During our discussion, Malou mentioned the necessity of diversity for human survival and progression. However, diversity cannot exist in a bubble and our respectful interaction with individuals and institutions in Senegal is a microcosm of the model that Malou supports and is helping to disseminate. In addition, his artist in residence program allows artists from around the world to create art in the traditional apprentice style workshop of Malou’s studio. In a way, one may see Malou’s network of artists, activists and, humanitarians as an extension of his art. Now as part of the living organism of artistic and social awareness that he has helped form, I feel a personal desire and obligation to use my privilege responsibly and in a generous manner in the art world and beyond.
-Maggie Dougherty
oh my….i dont even know….
(Source: gerardandlindseyway)
And with ‘you need to have’ he means you better fucking do it
(Source: youpaidaprettylittlepenny)
(Source: nemoleto)
