Ibrahim Mahama : Purple Hibiscus


Dramatic installation at the Barbican by Ghanaian artist Ibrahim Mahama.

The work was a huge pink, handwoven covering for the top of the building with 100 ‘batakaris’, robes worn by Ghanaian kings, embroidered onto it.

The pink and purple panels were made by hundreds of craftspeople from Tamale in Ghana and in the foyer is a fascinating video on the making of it and a chance to feel the material. Close up it was more nuanced than it looks at a distance.

I loved the dramatic effect, particularly the way that it reflects on the buildings around it and the way it is shaped around the architecture of the building. It is also fun to see it from inside in the upper floors.

Closes 18 August 2024


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