Now look here

The pop-up exhibition 'NOW LOOK HERE? The African Art of Appearance' in Amsterdam North presented the work of eighteen African artists who use outward appearances to tell a deeply rooted story. They upend perceptions of Africa through the use of irony, beauty and style.00This group exhibition showcased the work of eighteen African artists whose work at first glance stands out for its attention to outward appearance: everything is colourful, radiant, smooth, and aesthetic. On closer inspection, the seductive surface proves to be a lure that draws visitors into a deeper story, in which perspectives are reversed: white becomes black, stigma becomes beauty, a skivvy turns out to be a high priestess, and apparent footnotes to history are revealed as prominent figures.00The works address, directly or indirectly, the historical abuses and current troubles that dominate the media image of Africa. But the artists take charge of this image, and in doing so, set a completely different tone. What connects the photos, videos and performances in 'NOW LOOK HERE' is a superior game of clichés and prejudices, in which humour, beauty and optimism challenge daily reality.00Exhibition: Pop-up Asterweg 17, Amsterdam, The Netherlands (25.01.-23.02.2020).