  “In the dark times, will there also be singing? Yes, there will be singing, about the dark times” – Bertrand Bercholt, Motto.As the first of several wildfires began in the Pacific Palisades area of Los Angeles, there was no way of telling that this would become one of the largest and most devastating fires in the history of the city. The fires continue to burn, taking with them not just objects, but lives, homes, memories. Over a week later, the situation remains critical; the trauma and loss, immensurable. We would like to share the sincerest thoughts with the community of greater Los Angeles during this time of loss, fear and confusion. We are in awe of the resilience shown by those affected, the tireless first responders and volunteers, and the incredible support pouring in from across the globe.Los Angeles has long known resilience. A city for hoping, dreaming and doing. As the situation continues to unfold and the art community of Melrose begins to reopen its doors, we invite you to experience the healing and restitutive power of art with us. The gallery will be open on Tuesday 21, January 2024 to an extended showing of Occurrence, offering a place of solace and community.As the city looks to rebuild, a coalition of arts organisations and philanthropists led by Getty with numerous local partners, and other national and international supporters have announced the creation of the LA Arts Community Fire Relief Fund, a $12 million emergency relief fund for artists and arts workers in all disciplines impacted by the devastating Los Angeles fires.The fund is administered by the amazing team at the Center for Cultural Innovation. To read the full announcement, please visit this link.  Navigating the bittersweet paradox of loss and celebration, The Rele Arts Foundation proudly celebrates a decade of nurturing young African artists with the 10th edition of the Young Contemporaries program. This exhibition showcases the work of six artists who emerged from the Foundation’s residency in Ekiti, Nigeria.Informed by the region’s rich history of resistance, the works presented here explore ontological queries of identity, migration, and the preservation of culture. Chinecherem Ifedilichukwu investigates transgenerational cultural transmission through the use of traditional textile techniques, while Shariff Bakare critiques globalised economies of extraction, employing sculptural installations that juxtapose traditional and contemporary materials. David Oba-Fidelis blends the mundane and magical in semi-autobiographical works, utilising Ankara fabric as a backdrop for his narratives.Also working in textile, Progress Nyandoro‘s works integrate her Shona heritage with influences from Ekiti, creating evocative narratives. Tshepo Sizwe Phokojoe maps the impact of migration on African history through jute sackcloth installations, while Nzubechukwu Ozoemena‘s layered abstract compositions, with titles such as ‘Fellowship with the Downtrodden’ use religious iconography to speak of universal themes such grief and solidarity in harsh yet hush tones.REQUEST PREVIEW LAGOS | LOS ANGELES | LONDONClick here for directions: 711 N Western Ave Los Angeles CA 90029 United Statesla@rele.co (+1) 424-415-1200 |
iBAND Magazine 