Concorde: 12 Artists 12 Approaches
The exhibition “Concord” opened at Bolo L’espace Art & Culture, Douala, Cameroon on June 13 and continues until September 14. This collective exhibition is bringing together 12 significant Cameroonian artists representing a robust and timeless theme whose dimension includes social, political, spiritual, and humanist elements. An exciting work where the different aesthetic universes are intertwined intergenerational voices. Without a doubt one of the premier events of the summer. Concorde is a powerful feminine word that means peace, harmony, and fraternity. Some of the artists in this show include Salifou Lindou Fouanta, Gabriella Badjeck, Samuel Dalle, William Bakaimo, Abdias Ngatau, Jean David Nkot and Kristine Tsala. Edith Mbella, the curator for Concord is also the gallerist at Bolo L’espace Art & Culture.[kopa_blockquote border=”left”]Concorde is a feminine word to mean, peace, harmony, and fraternity. I choose this powerful name because human nature is always in search of an inaccessible balance, and in a dehumanized world the Concorde seems to be a real chimera. The traumatic situation of my country and that of the world invites a reflection on this subject. Twelve artists, twelve opinions, they each try to give their own vision on the same subject. Edith Mbella“[/kopa_blockquote]
HAF: I understand you are the curator for this project.
Edith: Yes, since 2016. I am the curator of the exhibitions of Bolo The space of Art & Culture.
HAF: What was your inspiration for Concorde?
Edith: The current socio-political context in Cameroon has been declining, but it is a recurring subject, I also live in Spain which is similar: separatism, tribalism, a real cocktail.
HAF: How did you select this group of artists?
Edith: I try to choose 12 artists from different generations and training. All of them have proved their worth. They are all recognized Cameroonian artists or promoters. Each has their place of writing or recognizable style. In this exhibition, they offer us different but harmonious works. I call them the “Apostles of Concord.” Their pictorial discourse is powerful and singular and we hope people will like them.
HAF: Can you provide a quote about this show?
Edith: Union of hearts and solidarity.