Pygmy Bark
dal 31/3/2003 al 9/2/2003
Segnalato da
31/3/2003
Pygmy Bark
Nolan/Eckman Gallery, New York
Paintings. This exhibition explores the traditions of the Mbuti through their vital and expressive paintings, which are usually made by women.
Paintings
This exhibition explores the traditions of the Mbuti through their vital and
expressive paintings, which are usually made by women.
The Mbuti people, of
the Ituri rainforest in Africa, are one of the few remaining hunter-gatherer
cultures in the world. Ancient testimony proves that the Mbuti have
inhabited the same territory for four thousand years, and were known even in
those times for highly developed music and dance.
Despite their long history
in the region, ethnologists did not encounter these nomadic Pygmies until
the end of the 19th century, and very few of their paintings were taken out
of the country before 1976.
Originally created as loincloths for ceremonies and dances, these intricate
works are sophisticated abstract compositions. The women who make them
believe that their art provides music, movement and splendor to nature
itself.
To our eyes, these works might also embody the qualities of
improvisation and syncopation that are associated with African art and
music.
This exhibition is one of a series that have explored the artworks of other
cultures. Previous shows have included African throwing knives, Japanese
lacquer ware, and Korean ceramics.
The exhibition Pygmy Bark Paintings will run simultaneously with Mel
Kendrick: Drawings in Wood.
NOLAN/ECKMAN GALLERY 560 Broadway New York 10012
tel: 212.925.6190 fax: 212.334.9139