Earlier this month I went to the opening of
the Suba Biennale where I briefly met Ousmane Mbaye. He is a Senegalese product designer, known for his rustic and recycled Graphik creations. During our short
encounter he mentioned another show he would be displaying more of his work at
in Senegal's capital city, Dakar. A show I am glad I went to as it was worthwhile!
Designers and photographers showcased their
work at the ‘structure’ themed exhibition, from what I understand both the work
of Ousmane and textile designer Johana Bramble where the physical aesthetics of the exhibition demonstrating structure, alongside captivating portrait photography by Alun Be
and Hai Chams who successfully portray different aspect of the theme. The photography looked at structure in education, economy, communities and
families, the invisible structure or shall I say the non-physical.
The work of Ousmane Mbaye varies from an
oversized outlined chair to modern deco coffee tables. A number of his
creations floated in the exhibited room as they stand on barely anything, just
the metal frame carefully covered in white giving each item a old porcelain
effect. I enjoyed the exhibition and the
idea of intertwining art, design and photography through a common ground. The exhibition was informative as artistic
director and creator of the exhibition Nicolas Kerroux talks about his role in
assisting and bringing the ideas and vision of Mbaye’s to life.
At the far end of the exhibition space
lined up on a miniature podium were all of the chairs that Mbaye has designed
since 2005 to the present day. This was my favorite part of the show as you see the growth and evolution of his designs meanwhile each chair continues to carry
individual characteristics. Regardless of the playful structure of his designs they
serve a fundamental function and purpose for any interior of exterior setting.
Photos by Yasmin Tells.
Photos by Yasmin Tells.
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