On these cold and stormy winter days it is best to spend time indoors, and there is no better place than the Museum Rijswijk where, for three months, you will be able to imagine yourself in warmer climes. Once again the curators have put on show a colourful and mind-broadening display with the creations of the Museum’s 2024 Textiel Biennale winner, Nigerian Badru Temitayo’s We Are Gods.
His works are mostly large scale textile tapestries, but not in the traditional sense. Most of the pieces are hand-stitched assemblages of existing articles such as Nigerian shirts and robes. The most impressive of these consists entirely of almost crop-tops in all colours of the rainbow, with the traditional round cut neck and squared-off sleeves, a shape not unlike some Japanese styles. Another piece sat on a large circle of sand in the midst of which are places numerous typical cloth hats.
In the title of the show Badru Temitayo refers to the Yoruba traditional beliefs in a supreme God reigning over smaller gods and spirits, as well as the strong belief in the world of the Yoruba ancestors who watch over the living. His choice of vibrant colours is an homage to the artist’s ancient culture and traditions many of which, as everywhere, are in danger to be lost due to the onslaught of mostly western consumer culture.
Smiling broadly and posing in front of his favourite piece, Badru Temitayo appeared in grand attire for this extensive solo show.
In the last few years African art has been breaking many barriers across the art world in the West. In London, as well as in the major art capitals of the world, the rise of African art and its influence is evident from galleries to exhibitions to museums and its exuberance and energy can no longer be ignored.
If you are within reach of The Hague and fancy a seven minute tram ride to Rijswijk, don’t miss this impressive exhibition.
On the first floor you can find a new selection from the Museum’s collection with textile designs, paintings and wonderful drawings. Astrid BURCHARDT 4th December 2024
Photo by Michael HASTED
We Are Gods continues at Museum Rijswijk until 2nd March 2025
