Dak’Art OFF

Part of the Dakar Biennale since 2002, the OFF is also a feature of the 2014 event. Besides the official exhibition with the participation of selected artists, Dak’Art OFF gives the opportunity for all actors in the art and culture to present their work without quality limit, nationality or gender criteria. The Raw Material Company, Center for Art, Knowledge and Society in Dakar, is taking part in the Dak’Art OFF program with this exhibition:

Precarious Imaging: Visibility surrounding African Queerness

7 May–18 July

Opening: Tuesday 6 May, 6:30–8:30pm

Curated by Ato Malinda and Koyo Kouoh

In 38 out of 54 African countries homosexuality is illegal. The exhibition will explore this reality in the work of artists from Algeria, Nigeria, South Africa, Egypt and Kenya respectively: Kader Attia, Andrew Esiebo, Zanele Muholi, Amanda Kerdahi M. and Jim Chuchu. Except for South Africa all countries have stringent laws against homosexuality, in which same-sex intercourse leads to incarceration. It is the history of activism that with visibility come human rights. But what is to be done when visibility incites violence against the minority? The shared condition of precariousness implies that there will be casualties. There has been evidence of pre-colonial homosexuality, although this is not the primary focus of this exhibition, it is no doubt of interest to many. The exhibition includes photography, video, installation and performance.

Photo: Courtesy Raw Material Company