All is set for Duality of One, a solo exhibition by renowned educator, cultural entrepreneur, photojournalist, curator and photographer, Aïda Muluneh.
The show is featuring 15 artworks made between 2014 – 2019 from eight of her prominent photo collections.
Curated by Richard Vedelago and Theo Allanso, Duality of One delves into the complexities of the human psyche, shedding light on the inherent dual nature within each individual. The exhibition unveils the nuanced aspects of human personas and seeks to emphasize the idea that within every person exists a dichotomy – a juxtaposition of contrasting traits and roles we present to the world.
Aïda Muluneh’s inspiration is rooted in her homeland Ethiopia, but the issues she addresses resonate beyond its borders. They encompass a broader African reality— a continent grappling with its multifaceted identity tied to a colonial past. This brings about instability and conflict.
Through vivid imagery, the artist confronts the battles we face within ourselves and in the world.
The Wolf You Feed (2014) deals with themes of human nature and delves into the choices we make and their profound impact in transforming our world. It prompts us to question if we choose to remain passive or become agents of change. Having resided in Addis Ababa for nearly a decade, Muluneh reflects on the quest for perfection in an imperfect world.
The World Is 9 (2016) invites us to ponder questions about who we are as people, about life, love and history. It emphasizes the need for strength in a world filled with uncertainty.
Inspired by the Cuban film “Memories in Underdevelopment,” the Memories in Development (2017) collection delves into the intricate relationship between political structures and the evolving societies in Africa. It prompts reflection on the impact poor leadership has on the society and our personal lives.
The Distant Gaze (2017) draws from images captured by foreign photographers of Ethiopian and Eritrean women. In this collection, Muluneh challenges the objectification and commodification of the black female body. She reimagines and reinterprets these images, sparking a vital conversation about the portrayal of women and the contemporary issues they face.
Memory of Hope (2017) is a call to action to become a catalyst of change. It highlights the darkness in humanity in our refusal to acknowledge the suffering of others. By choosing to remain passive while the world burns, we are complicit in the deterioration of society.
Addressing the critical issue of water access, Water Life (2018) highlights its profound impact on women in rural regions. Through her powerful images, Muluneh underscores the vital role water plays in women’s liberation, health, sanitation, and education. She emphasizes the urgency of supporting access to water in these communities, where women often bear the disproportionate burden of fetching water for their households.
Drawing from her experiences in Addis Ababa, Muluneh’s visual language is rooted in photojournalism and poetry. Mirror of Soul (2019) becomes an intimate expression of Muluneh’s innermost thoughts and experiences.
Echoing Emily Dickinson’s sentiment, “Wings That Soar” (2019) collection embodies hope as a resilient force. These images serve as a testament to the enduring power of hope, even in the face of adversity. Through each piece, Muluneh reminds us of the strength we posses as individuals and as a collective.
Muluneh’s collections offer a profound journey through the complexities of human existence, inviting us to reflect, question, and act. Her art transcends boundaries, speaking to the universal truths that bind us all. In this exhibition, we find not only a celebration of her artistic prowess, but also a mirror held up to our own identities, complexities and potential for change.
Join us at Windsor Gallery (Abuja) for this extraordinary presentation celebrating Aïda Muluneh’s long established practice and profound work with local and international institutions.
“Our goal at Windsor Gallery is to provide fresh insights into the West African art market, allowing us to serve both emerging and established artists while guiding novice and experienced buyers alike. In addition to our deep commitment towards showcasing the works of both established and emerging artists, we are focused on bolstering our roster of featured artists through our ongoing programming.
