#United States #New York #African Art #Soloviev Foundation #Tumelo Mosaka

New Exhibition: Between Distance and Desire

The Soloviev Foundation Gallery in New York is preparing to unveil a captivating exhibition titled Between Distance and Desire: African Diasporic Perspectives. Opening on May 1, 2025, under the curation of Tumelo Mosaka, this exhibition aims to redefine traditional perceptions of African art through the lens of contemporary aesthetics and cultural dialogues.

A New Perspective on African Art

Located at the Soloviev Group’s iconic tower on 9 West 57th Street, the gallery will feature eight contemporary artists alongside the gallery’s extensive collection. This exhibition diverges from conventional displays to challenge historical narratives that have shaped how African art is perceived globally. By addressing complex histories tied to colonialism, the exhibit utilizes play and fantasy to present alternative narratives on Black aesthetics, examining the intricate interplay of the past, present, and potential future of African art.

Diverse Artistic Expressions

The participating artists, including Edson Chagas, vanessa german, Eblin Grueso, and others, embrace a variety of formal techniques, from vibrant figurative painting and assemblage to powerful monumental sculptures and interactive performances. Each piece intentionally merges influences from diverse geographies and historical timelines, creating a dynamic dialogue that engages with pressing social issues in Africa.

For instance, the exhibition dives into themes such as urban challenges, gender inequalities, and environmental crises, reimagining Africa's position in contemporary society. The positioning of the artworks also displays an innovative approach; masks and objects are exhibited collectively, joining visual conversations among themselves and encouraging viewer interaction.

An exceptional element of this show is the inclusion of artworks presented within their shipping crates, underscoring an often-overlooked aspect of African art history: the stories of these objects when they are not in the spotlight or on display. This dynamic invites viewers to contemplate the journey of African art beyond the gallery walls, opening discussions about accessibility and representation.

Curatorial Vision and Engagement

Tumelo Mosaka, known for his insightful approach to global transnational artistic practices, leads the curation of this exhibition. As the Mellon Arts Project Director at Columbia University, Mosaka has honed in on the vibrancy and critical nature of the African diaspora’s contributions to the cultural landscape.

Through guided tours and public viewing hours, the Soloviev Foundation encourages community engagement with this exhibition, which will run until December 31, 2025. Visitors are invited to explore the gallery's website for reservations to experience this profound exploration of African diasporic perspectives.

About the Soloviev Foundation

The Soloviev Foundation serves as a philanthropic branch of the Soloviev Group, focused on supporting humanitarian, environmental, and educational initiatives. With a commitment to uplifting both large institutions addressing global crises and smaller organizations meeting hyperlocal needs, the Foundation is dedicated to making a meaningful impact on communities worldwide. For more information, visit solovievfoundation.org.

In conclusion, Between Distance and Desire promises to be not just an exhibition, but a transformative experience that challenges commonly held notions of identity, artistry, and culture within the African diaspora. It opens the door for new conversations that invite all to examine, appreciate, and engage with African art's profound legacies and future possibilities.