Lors de la récente Biennale des arts ouverte le 7 novembre dernier à Dakar, la Barbade a marqué sa première participation. Andrea Wells, directrice de la Fondation Nationale de la Culture de l’île, a dirigé ce projet ambitieux visant à établir des connexions culturelles au-delà des océans.
Pour la première fois, la Barbade participe à cet événement artistique majeur en Afrique. Sous l’impulsion d’Andrea Wells, ce projet a introduit l’art barbadien et son riche héritage afro-caribéen au public africain. Wells a créé le projet Transatlantic One, qui raconte l’histoire et la culture de la Barbade à travers des expressions artistiques visuelles.
This is the first time that a group of Barbadian artists represents the island at the Biennale, » said Wells. The exhibition features eleven artists exploring universal themes such as African heritage, Caribbean mythology, and the diaspora experience. Despite logistical delays, the artworks are presented digitally, allowing interaction with visitors in a novel way at Dakar’s Village des Arts.
Russell Watson, one of the featured artists, draws on the islands Afro-Caribbean mythology and its intimate connection to the sea in his work. Using the sea as a symbol of spiritual continuity, Watson explores the resilience embedded within Barbadian identity.
David Guru McLean reflects on early Africa-Caribbean relations before the slave trade, celebrating a often ignored history. His work depicts African merchants’ ships, highlighting a dignified trade relationship pre-colonization traumas. Photographer Rizée Chaderton-Charles addresses the painful memory of slavery using mythical figures like Mami Wata, transforming the ocean into a sacred space commemorating lost souls.
The Barbadian government’s investment in this venture is considerable, at about 200,000 US dollars, advocating for enhanced international cultural exchanges. Supported by Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley, the initiative seeks to open new collaboration avenues for Barbadians.
Andrea Wells sees the project’s success as integrating Barbadian art into an international network, enriching dialogue around African roots. By melding myth, history, and modern expressions, the initiative positions Barbados as a dynamic source of global creative discourse.