February 2023 “Buik tot buik”
Consists of paintings, poetry, essay, performances.
Inspiration
Mogobe Ramose, phylosopher: “Wisdom begins with the realization that our two arms cannot embrace the trunk of the baobab. But if we join forces, it is possible that we can strengthen and enrich each other. Then wisdom is born.”
Marc Rutte, in his position as Prime Minister, in his speech of December 19, 2022 in which he apologizes for slavery: “Social awareness is taking place. And therefore also a change in thinking.” The key in this process of changing thinking is to be able to lean towards each other, look for connection and humanity. Many African philosophies, such as in the Yoroba thought tradition, carry the message of humanity in which forgiveness and reconciliation have a much deeper meaning and are so deeply connecting and true in no other culture or religion. From connection and humanity, we would no longer see “the other”, but exist in relation to the other. And a bridge would have been built between the different dialogues. Another reason for including the philosophies of my ancestors in my essay lies in the fact that encounters with other thought traditions make collective thought patterns visible. Telling our shared history from the perspective of all participants also creates space to achieve an inclusive society and future. That is why I discuss our history of slavery and the importance of epistemic justice. Mogobe Ramose: “Humanity is never finished, but a process and a task: a constant search for truth, justice and a sense of community that allows you and me to be human.” With these thoughts, feelings and preference for physicality in my work, I came up with the series “From Belly to Belly” to put a stop to exclusion through the head and to allow connections through the abdomen.
Performance Talk on “Belly tot Belly”
Essay “From Belly to Belly” (Dutch 6300 words)
Paintings
“Belly to Belly I” 98x126cm
“Belly to Belly II” 80x100cm
“Bellytalk” acryl op canvas 150x110cm
seandy-achthoven.art 